Resonance System

This original apparatus gives students a modern approach to a fascinating topic, with scope for imaginative research.
An acrylic base unit supports a hacksaw blade which is loaded at the top with a detachable brass weight. An electromagnetic drive coil, connected to a standard laboratory signal generator can cause the blade to vibrate in various modes. A bimorph, piezo-electric transducer, bonded to the blade, detects the amplitude of the vibration when its output is monitored on a C.R.O. Students can study the amplitude of vibration and resonance as a function of drive frequency.
In addition, there is a mechanical damping system provided by a thin aluminium vane moving in a small vessel containing water. The amount of damping is controlled by the depth of water used. The effect of damping on resonance can be studied.