Interactive Simulation

Standing Waves

Open the activity below and explore the concept visually. Use the category link to return to the broader Waves collection.

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Description
This simulation is intended to help students better see what is really going on when a standing wave forms on a string or in an air column. Use the buttons to choose waves on a string or waves in air columns, as well as the particular harmonic. Use the check boxes to show or hide the transverse and longitudinal displacement waves, as well as the pressure variation wave.