Compact ripple tank physics apparatus for demonstrating wave interference reflection refraction and diffraction
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2 reviews

Sci-Supply Compact Ripple Tank – Physics Wave Interference Demonstration Apparatus for Reflection, Refraction & Diffraction Experiments

SKU:
SS1157
$229.95 $135.95
Current Stock:
25
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Description

The Sci-Supply Compact Ripple Tank is an excellent teaching apparatus for demonstrating two-dimensional wave behavior in physics and STEM classrooms. By generating waves in a shallow water tank and illuminating them with a built-in light source, the wave patterns can be projected onto the viewing screen for clear observation.

Ripple tanks are commonly used to study the fundamental properties of waves including reflection, refraction, diffraction, and interference. These experiments help students visualize how waves interact with obstacles, boundaries, and other waves.

Unlike large traditional ripple tanks that require substantial lab space, this compact unit can be placed on an overhead projector or demonstration surface so the entire class can observe wave patterns simultaneously.

Students can generate circular waves, plane waves, and interference patterns using the included dipper attachments and accessories. Multiple refractors and barriers allow instructors to demonstrate how wave fronts change when encountering different obstacles or changes in depth.

This apparatus is ideal for classroom demonstrations, lab experiments, and STEM instruction focused on wave physics.

Key Features

Compact Classroom Design
Small footprint allows the ripple tank to fit easily on a demonstration bench or overhead projector.

Visualize Wave Phenomena
Demonstrate reflection, refraction, diffraction, and wave interference using real water waves.

Multiple Wave Sources
Includes three dipper attachments for generating different wave patterns including point sources and plane waves.

Versatile Wave Experiments
Refractors and barriers allow students to observe wave behavior as waves encounter obstacles or boundaries.

Integrated Illumination Modes
Three lighting modes (On, Sync, Free Strobe) help highlight wave motion and interference patterns.

What’s Included

• Ripple Tank with hinged 5" projection screen
• Single-point dipper
• Twin-point dipper
• Plane wave dipper
• Trapezoidal refractor
• Triangular refractor
• Convex refractor
• Three wave barriers
• 12V DC power supply

Specifications

Dimensions:
9 × 6 × 6 inches (22.5 × 15 × 15 cm)

Weight:
2.8 lbs

Power Supply:
12V / 1A DC (included)

Educational Objectives 

Students can investigate:

• Wave interference patterns
• Reflection from barriers
• Refraction due to changes in depth
• Diffraction through openings
• Wavelength and wavefront propagation

2 reviews

  • 5
    On Point

    Posted by Vinny Jackson on Feb 3rd 2019

    I was a bit hesitant to purchase these based on another review. We purchased 6 of these units, and they've been holding up well now for over a year in lab. The agitators are a bit finicky to position, but they can be adjusted by bending slightly. We bought some extra agitators to have on hand, so that's not been a problem. I like the small footprint due to limited storage space. The older ripple tanks we had were giant in comparison, so this is a definite space saver. You get a lot of bang for your buck with these.

  • 2
    Great concept -- poor implementation.

    Posted by Louis Nuyens on May 31st 2018

    The basic design idea is fine; however, the product is unnecessarily difficult to use and deficient for its intended purpose. Pros: - Simple design - Strobe options - Acceptable range of agitation frequencies CONS: - No built-in storage for the acrylic and metal accessories. - One acrylic piece is too large to fit into the ripple tank. - The agitator/"dipper" elements are wire that is too thin to position well. - The agitator elements we received sit too high, and do not reach down far enough, to reach the water if the water is shallow enough for the submersible acrylic pieces to be effective. - Agitator/"Dipper" motor does not seem to run smoothly. - Documentation is poor -- virtually none of the included elements is described or explained. - These units could easily have been designed to run off of user-supplied batteries as well as plug-in power supplies; even better if these units were designed to run off of built-in rechargeable batteries.