String and Coat Hanger
String and Coat Hanger

 

Code Number: 3B39.30

Demo Title: Big Ben - Coat Hanger on a String

Condition: Good

Principle: Sound Travel Through Solids

Area of Study: Oscillations & Acoustics

Equipment: 

String, Coat Hanger.

Procedure:

The triangle is stored in the 3D40.60 - Chimes/Triangle Box. 

Hold one string to each ear.  Swing the coat hanger or triangle so that it strikes a table or bench and you will hear a very loud "Bong" type sound transmitted by the strings.

References:

  • T.M. Kalotas, A. R. Lee, "Big Ben on a Shoestring", TPT, Vol. 31, # 7, Oct. 1993, p. 400.
  • Ronald Ebert, "Adapting Some Demonstrations for a Large Class", TPT, Vol. 30, # 4, March 1992, p. 239.
  • "W-020, Transmission of Energy - Tin Can Phone-Coat Hanger Amp.", DICK and RAE Physics Demo Notebook.
  • Herb Strongin, “Making a Stereo Metal Hanger Musical Instrument“, Science on a Shoestring, p. 151.