Experiment 3: Wavelength vs. Frequency

 Purpose: to experimentally determine a relationship between wavelength and frequency using metal springs.

 Materials:

• A meter stick
• Large metal spring
• Two Students

Experiment:

Procedure

Video of the Experimental Procedure taking place between the two Engineering Physics students.

 

Table 1&2 - Data Collected During Experiement

Conclusion:

Graph 1&2 - Inconsistent Graphs of Distance and Frequency

 

The data collected produced graphs that were very inconsistent from the expected results. We can attribute such an error due to a 3rd variable, TENSION!! This variable did not allow for a precise assertion of the relationship of wavelength and frequency.

v : velocity of propagation of wave
f : frequency of wave
λ: wavelength of wave
T : period of wave

v = f * λ

T = 1/f
v =(1/T)*λ

therefore, the relationship is inversely proportional, the longer the wavelength the lower the frequency, and the shorter the wavelength the higher the frequency.