Practical Work in Physics

Abstract

THIS is the third part of a course of practical physics, the two previous ones dealing with heat and general physics. A fourth part, on electricity and magnetism, will complete the work. The optical experiments in the present volume illustrate photometry, reflection at plane and at spherical surfaces, refraction at plane surfaces, and through lenses. The experiments in sound demonstrate the laws of transverse vibrations of wires, velocity of sound through gases and through solids, and interference of sound-waves. Only inexpensive apparatus is needed in order to carry out the experiments described, and the instructions, both as to construction of apparatus and performance with it, are clear and practicable. Experiments in sound depend upon the physiological perception of tone, and some students are unable to accurately perform them. The number of students with no “ear for music” (musicians will, perhaps, pardon the designation of the twanging of a monochord as music) is, however, very small. Mr. Woollcombe says that only five per cent, of his students have so little musical sense that the experiments in sound he describes cannot be satisfactorily carried out by them; and his experience is about the same as that of most teachers and demonstrators of physics.