Slinky and Waves
This material is replicated on a number of sites
as part of the
SERC Pedagogic Service Project
Summary
Use a Slinky in interactive lecture demonstration to show:
- P and S waves.
- Wave reflection.
- Standing waves.
Learning Goals
- Learn about and visualize:
- Discuss P and S waves
- Wave reflection from higher and lower density media;
- Standing waves.
Context for Use
Use in an introductory geoscience course where wave properties are important. Examples of such courses include Geology, Oceanography, or Atmospheric Sciences.
Teaching Materials
These links contain good description of physical model and tips for using them effectively in class.
Teaching Notes and Tips
See links in teaching materials above.
The slinky wave also allows one to discuss and visualize such basic wave properties as:
- Wave speed;
- Wave length;
- Amplitude;
- Period and frequency.
Assessment
Standard content questions can be developed to assess student understanding of the demonstrated ideas.
