Supersnake Demonstration Spring – Transverse & Longitudinal Waves, 1800 mm

The Supersnake Demonstration Spring is a long helical spring for exploring how mechanical waves travel. Approximately 1800 mm long and 20 mm in diameter, it lets students create and observe wave pulses in classroom physics experiments.

Its extended length makes transverse and longitudinal wave motion easier to demonstrate in practical lessons. Students can also explore wave reflection and standing-wave patterns through simple paired activities.

Key Features

• Long helical spring for wave demonstrations
• Illustrates transverse and longitudinal waves
• Supports investigations of wavelength, amplitude, frequency and wave propagation
• Useful for observing reflected pulses and standing-wave patterns
• Suitable for supervised individual and group classroom activities

Classroom Investigations

• Transverse waves: With a partner holding the opposite end, move one end sideways to send a pulse along the spring. Observe how the coils move across the direction in which the pulse travels.
• Longitudinal waves: Compress a short section of the spring and release it to observe a compression pulse travelling along its length.
• Wave reflection: Compare the return of a pulse from a securely held end with its behaviour at a suitably free end.
• Wavelength and frequency: Change how quickly one end is moved and observe the spacing of successive waves.
• Standing waves: With both ends held securely, vary the rate of repeated movement to look for stable patterns with nodes and antinodes.
• Comparing waves: Relate the visible motion of the spring to the behaviour of sound and water waves.

Specifications

• Type: Helical demonstration spring
• Length: Approximately 1800 mm
• Diameter: Approximately 20 mm

Classroom Use

Use under teacher supervision, with eye protection during spring experiments. Ensure both ends are held securely and avoid overstretching or suddenly releasing the spring.

Ideal for: School physics investigations of mechanical waves, wave propagation, reflection, standing waves and energy transfer.

Instruction Guide & Classroom Activities

Download the Delta Supersnake Instruction Guide & Classroom Activities (PDF) for practical wave investigations and teaching activities.