Resonance Tube Experiment

Theory & Formulas

Measurement of the velocity of sound in air (v) and end correction (e) using a closed resonating tube.

• Fundamental Resonance:   ¼ λ = l1 + e  ⇒  v = 4f(l1 + e)
• First Overtone:   ¾ λ = l2 + e  ⇒  v = &frac43; f(l2 + e)
• Velocity of Sound:   v = 2f(l2l1)
• End Correction:   e = (l2 − 3l1) / 2
Audio Stopped

Measure & Record

Controls & Audio

Readings & Calculated Data

# Frequency f (Hz) l1 (cm) l2 (cm) Velocity v (m/s) End Correction e (cm)
Adjust air column height to find resonance peaks (l1 and l2). Then click Calculate or Record Finding.