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Lesson 7 - Superposition of waves
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Objective
In this lesson students learn about the principal of superposition of waves. There will be two components to the lesson, one involving a physical investigation using sound waves and a second using computer simulation.
Prescribed Focus Area Skills Development Content

P2 A student applies the processes that are used to test and validate models, theories and laws of science with particular emphasis on first-hand investigations in physics

P12.1 Students perform first-hand investigations
P12.2 … gather first-hand information
P12.4 … process information
P14 … draw valid conclusions from gathered data and information

D2.5 Students will learn to describe the principle of superposition in sound and compare the resulting waves to the original waves.

Activity Resources Homework

A2.2 Perform a first-hand investigation, gather, process and present information using a CRO …
and …
computer [simulations] to demonstrate the principle of superposition for two waves travelling in the same medium.

  • Sound source(s)
  • Guitar
  • Microphone & amplifier
  • Oscilloscope
  • PC access
A2.3 Students present graphical information, solve problems and analyse information involving superposition of sound waves.
Management issues Nominal duration
 
2 hours

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