This project links properties of transversely vibrating mechanical systems with electromagnetic waves at radio frequencies. Currently, there are few attempts in lower division physics laboratories to demonstrate any of the properties of electromagnetic waves at radio frequencies. In lower division laboratories, electromagnetic waves are presented in terms of oscillations of current and voltage in wires at audio frequencies which leaves the student with the impression that electromagnetic waves in space are a topic entirely separate from transverse mechanical waves, hidden from comprehension by a formidable mathematical formalism. Understanding the similarities of electromagnetic waves to transverse mechanical waves gives the students an appreciation of the physical basis of electrical phenomena. Concepts like impedance, reflection coefficient, and matching are seen as general properties of all transverse waves and are not unique to electromagnetic waves. Understanding the differences between electromagnetic waves and transverse mechanical waves leads the student naturally into the modern theories of electrons and relativity. The major instruments to be purchases are Wiltron Model 6409 RF Analyzer. The Wiltron Analyzer will be used to investigate. A. Electromagnetic standing waves in conductors', B. Attenuation of electromagnetic waves in systems driven beyond cut-off, C. Electromagnetic modes of vibration in cavity resonators', electromagnetic waves in space near conductors.
