Sound Pipe Lab
Question:
How will changing the length of a plastic pipe change its sound (period) when struck on your palm?
Background:
Example: Our instructor showed us how striking the open end of a 6" plastic pipe on his palm makes a pleasing sound. It sounded a little like a wood block I've used in band in middle school, only more "airy". I know that larger bells have a lower tone when struck. The larger pipes on pipe organs also have a lower tone than the small pipes.
Prediction/Hypothesis:
If the length of the pipe is _________ then the pipe period should be _________ because sound period is longer (frequency is lower) with larger structures.
Be specific! If the length is doubled then the period will be one-half what is was...
Equipment:
- Several lengths of pvc pipes from the hardware store (6", 9" 12")
- A way to measure the sound frequency such as the Soundcard Oscilloscope
Procedure:
- Have the instructor setup the Soundcard Oscilloscope
- Students provide the rest of the procedure.
Data:
| Trials | Pipe length = cm | Pipe length = cm | Pipe length = cm |
| Trail 1 | |||
| Trail 2 | |||
| Trail 3 | |||
| Average period (s) |
Conclusion:
- Restate the prediction or hypothesis.
- Clearly state whether the prediction/hypothesis was correct or give a correct answer to the investigative question.
- Provide the range of data from high to low.
- Explain how the data supports or rejects the hypothesis or answers the question.