• ID Code: H3-12
  • Purpose: Demonstrate standing sound waves in air excited by convection currents.
  • Description: A switch is held closed, activating a nichrome wire coil in a vertical glass tube, leading to a very loud roar at about 130 Hz, the fundamental frequency of a four-foot air tube. This is the classic Rijke tube demonstration with an electrical heater replacing a gas burner and screen as the source of the convection currents.

    Consider combing this with H3-13, and invite students to make predictions about the differences in pitch and volume.

  • Availability: Available
  • References: http://www.physics.umd.edu/deptinfo/facilities/lecdem/services/refs/refsh.htm#H3-12
  • Loc codes: FS1
  • Videos-1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M43UZN0nee8