Review for:Ripple Tank simulation

posted: on November 27, 2006 at 9:33PM

physics

wave theory

understand basic wave properties; have a way for students to visualize how waves work in a variety of situations

Honors or Advanced, Intro or Regular, Remedial

This simulation shows a ripple tank. It was able to show quickly and easily basic wave properties, reflection of waves, refraction of waves, interference of waves, and diffraction of waves.

We use the simulation to demonstrate concepts in class and practice concepts outside of class

Provides visualization or animation, Increases modeling skills, Provides a virtual lab, Provides practice or tutorial, Increases student engagement and motivation

This is a great simulation and I must echo Bruce's endorsement. I am not a big fan of computerized simulations of physics; I would rather do the real deed in the lab. However, a ripple tank is particularly affected by noise (reflections from sides of the tank, difficulty of freezing waves to make measurements of wavelength, etc.). I have spent a week with students in lab groups each with a ripple tank and I found that by the end of the week they had not seen what I thought they had seen. The noise can obscure the real physics.

This simulation can take away all of that. Noise can go away. Waves can be frozen in an instant. You can measure wavelength and with a stopwatch you can measure frequency. You can measure angles. You can set up walls, etc.

It is really amazing.

Almost too many options; kids can get distracted as they try to make the most beautiful pattern.