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.

Disclaimer

These demonstrations are provided only for illustrative use by persons affiliated with The University of Iowa and only under the direction of a trained instructor or physicist. The University of Iowa is not responsible for demonstrations performed by those using their own equipment or who choose to use this reference material for their own purpose. The demonstrations included here are within the public domain and can be found in materials contained in libraries, bookstores, and through electronic sources. Performing all or any portion of any of these demonstrations, with or without revisions not depicted here entails inherent risks. These risks include, without limitation, bodily injury (and possibly death), including risks to health that may be temporary or permanent and that may exacerbate a pre-existing medical condition; and property loss or damage. Anyone performing any part of these demonstrations, even with revisions, knowingly and voluntarily assumes all risks associated with them.

Instructional Resources and Lecture Demonstrations

3B39.30 - Big Ben - Coat Hanger on a String

Disclaimer