Objective:
– To show that two sound waves of the same frequency cancel out if one has to travel 1/2 wavelength further than the other.
Apparatus:
- Custom PVC interference tube loop
- Stand, 3-fingered clamp
- Function generator, Wavetek
- Speaker (University Sound model 1D30C-8)
- Banana leads, two
- BNC/Banana adapter
Method:
Set the frequency generator to generate a 2.1 KHz sine wave. Fine tune the frequency control to attain maximum sound output, with the top loop retracted. The sound is split into two paths which re-combine at the output. If the top loop is lengthened by 1/2 wavelength, the two sound waves interfere and very little output is heard.
Note:
The effect can be demonstrated to an entire class at once.
Interference Demo: Red-Neck Trombone
– Video Created at Utah State University by Professor Boyd F. Edwards and assistants.