Science Department
Waves on a string (PhEt)

A- Goal of the experiment: To understand & explore wave properties and its behaviors.

B- Needed materials: Computer with up to date Flash player and calculator.

Step one - Access to the simulation: Go to the website below to access the simulation.
https://phet.colorado.edu/sims/html/wave-on-a-string/latest/wave-on-a-string_en.html
Either run on the browser or download.

Step two - Test the simulation and start the lab activity: Select “oscillate” on left top menu and “no end” on right top menu.




Change the amplitude and explain its effect with drawings below:
Low
High




Change the frequency and explain its effect with drawings below:
Low
High




Change the damping and explain its effect with drawings below:
Low
High




Step three - Reflections: Change the selection to “pulse” and “loose end” . Send one pulse and observe the reflection and then compare to the reflection on “fixed end”. Draw below, before and after the reflection shapes.

Loose End
Fixed End





Step four - Interactions: Set “pulse” and “fixed” options to have two pulses in reverse directions. Name this interaction and draw below with numerical values at the instant of mid points meeting.. Tip: Click “frame” to clearly see the interaction. Lower pulse width to 20. Repeat for “loose” end.



Define each of the following terms (use pictures if necessary):
1. Amplitutde


2. Wavelength



3. Trough



4. Frequency