Sonometer Apparatus
Product Code : SCL-HM-11241
Quick answer: This sonometer apparatus is used to find the frequency of a tuning fork by resonance: the vibrating length of a stretched wire is adjusted until a paper rider on the wire is thrown off. The same set-up shows how frequency depends on length, tension and mass per unit length. Lab Exports manufactures it in Delhi for schools, colleges and universities.
Specifications
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Principles | Resonance; laws of transverse vibration in stretched strings |
| Quantities studied | Frequency, vibrating length, tension and linear density |
| Scope of supply | One sonometer assembly |
Wire, movable bridges, pulley, mass hanger, slotted masses, tuning fork, paper rider and rubber hammer are not assumed to be included; the component list is confirmed with the quotation.
How the unknown frequency experiment is done
Resonance occurs when the natural frequency of the stretched wire equals the frequency of the fork pressed against the sonometer. The wire then vibrates with a large amplitude, strongly enough to throw off a small paper rider placed at the middle of the vibrating length. Because the frequency of the wire depends on its length, the resonant length becomes a measure of the fork frequency.
- Stretch the wire over the bridges and apply a fixed load.
- Place a small paper rider on the wire midway between the bridges.
- Strike the fork with a rubber hammer and press its stem on the sonometer box.
- Move the bridges slowly until the rider flutters and falls, then record the length between them.
- Repeat with a fork of known frequency at the same tension.
At constant tension f x l is constant, so the unknown frequency is f2 = f1 x l1 / l2, where f1 and l1 belong to the known fork and l2 to the unknown one. With the tension and the mass per unit length of the wire known, the frequency can also be calculated directly from f = (1 / 2l) x sqrt(T / m).
Key features
- Resonance between the wire and a vibration source is easy to detect with a paper rider.
- Supports tuning-fork frequency determination in school and college practicals.
- Vibrating length and applied tension can both be measured and varied.
- Covers the effect of length, tension and linear density on frequency.
- Reusable when the wire and loading system are handled correctly.
Documentation and supply
Installation instructions and a manual are supplied with the apparatus. Most Lab Exports products carry a one-year manufacturer warranty.
Lab Exports manufactures the sonometer at its works in Laxmi Nagar, Delhi, and supplies it to schools, colleges and universities in India and 60+ countries, handling the export documents for each shipment. More about the company is on the About Lab Exports page.
Related Physics Miscellaneous Products products
- Tuning Fork Set of 8 (SCL-HM-11242)
- Globe 12" (SCL-PMP-11238)
- Reflection of Sound Apparatus (SCL-PMP-11222)
- Biogas Plant Working Model (SCL-PMP-11217)
- Melde's Apparatus (SCL-PMP-11206)
- PM Shri Science Kit (SCL-PMP-11197)
The full range is in the Physics Miscellaneous Products section of the Physics Lab range.
Frequently asked questions
How is the frequency of a tuning fork found with a sonometer?
Adjust the vibrating length until the wire resonates with the fork, shown by a paper rider falling off. Comparing with a fork of known frequency at the same tension gives f2 = f1 x l1 / l2.
Why is a paper rider used on the sonometer wire?
At resonance the wire vibrates with maximum amplitude and throws the rider off, which marks the resonant length more clearly than listening alone.
What is the price of the sonometer?
Prices are not published on the website. Add the sonometer to the Enquiry Cart with the Add To Cart button on this page, or email [email protected] with the house code SCL-HM-11241 and the quantity, to receive a quotation.
Does Lab Exports manufacture the sonometer?
Yes. Lab Exports manufactures the sonometer at its works at 11/315, Lalita Park, Laxmi Nagar, Delhi 110092, under house code SCL-HM-11241.
Request a quote
Email [email protected] with the house code SCL-HM-11241 and the quantity, or add the sonometer to the Enquiry Cart with the Add To Cart button on this page. Tender buyers can also see the Tenders and OEM page.
