Product Information

What does resonance look like?

In physics, resonance is the tendency for something to oscillate at some frequencies with larger amplitude than at others. This is known as a system’s resonant frequency, which is graphically demonstrated in this exhibit.

A horizontal, clear tube is partially filled with Styrofoam pellets. The visitor controls sound via a speaker at one end causing the air in the tube to vibrate, and the Styrofoam pellets vibrate where the motion of air is greatest.

By adjusting the resonant frequency of the speaker (thereby changing the pressure inside the tube), rows of Styrofoam pellets will form at various intervals (antinodes) in the tube. The higher the frequency, the more rows of Styrofoam pellets form.

Height: 48″
Width: 28″
Length: 60″
Weight: Approximately 300 pounds
Electrical Requirements: 110V Outlet
Other requirements: None
Lead Time: Six weeks from receipt of deposit