Tuning Forks
| Physics: | Sound Waves |
| Grade Range: | Elementary School, Middle School |
| Format: | Hands-on |
A great demonstration for large events, as it can entertain several students all at the same time. Be sure to keep an eye on how many tuning forks you set out, so you can make sure students don't walk away with them.
Materials
- Tuning Forks, Various Sizes
- Rubber Mallet
Safety Precautions
Please read the Physical Demonstrations section of the Demonstration Safety page before performing this demonstration.
Demonstration
- Set out one set of the small tuning forks and one of the big tuning forks. Allow students to come up and hold the small tuning forks. show the students how to tap the tuning forks to hear the notes!
- Gently tap the big tuning fork with the rubber mallet from time to time, so students can hear it as well!
Why This Works
Tuning forks are used by musicians to make sure their instrument is correctly tuned. Tuning forks, when tapped, will continue to vibrate and make Compression Waves, which we know as sound waves! Tuning forks, no matter how hard or soft you tap them, will only vibrate and create the note they are made for. This is because they are made to be the correct length for the Frequency of the particular note. By tapping the tuning fork harder, you are instead changing the Amplitude, or height, of the sound wave produced, which affects how loud it is!
Additional Information
- This demonstration pairs well with the Slinky Waves demonstration.