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Sound & Waves

Explore the science of the unseen waves and sounds. Sound waves are all around us and though they cannot be seen, they can be felt through vibrations. These interactive exhibits will enable visitors to learn what sound looks like and how waves travel, as well as to experience ranges of frequency and resonance.

The Wave Machine

What does a sound wave look like? Press buttons to send energy through a series of connected rods, creating moving or standing waves

Sound Waves

What do sound frequencies look like? Press different buttons to produce sounds of various frequencies. The tiny polystyrene balls form waves of corresponding lengths.

Resonance

Strike one bar and notice that a second bar of the same length also begins to vibrate.

Oscilloscope

Speak into a microphone or strike a tuning fork, and watch the sound waves appear on the screen as a unique electromagnetic voltage pattern.

Sound Delay

What is the speed of sound? Speak into one end of a long, coiled tube and hear the words come out a moment later at the other end.