Large Open Speaker, Candle, Grill Lighter, and Wave Generator

 

Code Number: 3B30.40

Demo Title: Speaker and Candle Flame

Condition: Excellent

Principle: Pressure Waves

Area of Study: Oscillations & Acoustics

Equipment: 

Large Open Speaker, Candle, Grill Lighter, and Wave Generator.

Procedure:

Place a lit candle in front of a speaker. Adjust the generator from 0 to 150 Hz while observing the candle flame. You may need to move the candle/speaker distance to find the optimum position.

References:

  • Cameron T. Vongsawad, Mark L. Berardi, Tracianne B. Neilsen, Kent L. Gee, Jennifer K. Whiting, and M. Jeannette Lawler, "Acoustics for the Deaf: Can You See Me Now?", TPT, Vol. 54, #6, Sept. 2016, p. 369.
  • P. Simeão Carvalho, E. Briosa, M. Rodrigues, C. Pereira, and M. Ataíde, "How to Use a Candle to Study Sound Waves", TPT, Vol. 51, #7, Oct. 2013, p. 398.
  • Zdeslav Hrepic, Corey Nettles, and Chelsea Bonilla, "Demonstrating Sound Wave Propagation with Candle Flame and Loudspeaker", TPT, Vol. 51, #1, Jan. 2013, p. 16.
  • Curt Suplee, "Blown Away", Everyday Science Explained, National Geographic, p. 58 - 59.
University of Maryland Physics Department QOTW Question #242
University of Maryland Physics Department QOTW Answer #242
 
3B30.40 - University of Maryland QOTW Answer #242 Side View
3B30.40 - University of Maryland QOTW Answer #242 Front View