Sonic Flame Tube—Demonstration Kit

Product Details

Ignite your students’ interest in sound waves! The Sonic Flame Tube, also called a Ruben’s tube, is a demonstration that allows students to visualize waves and resonance. Natural gas is allowed to flow through a 3-foot aluminum tube containing predrilled, evenly spaced holes, and is then ignited. A speaker attached to the opposite end of the tube is used to send specific frequency sound waves through the tube, creating resonance. Watch as the gas flames above each hole move with the frequency, creating a beautiful wave pattern that is due to the formation of nodes and antinodes in the tube. Apparatus may also be connected to an electronic instrument, such as a keyboard. Kit includes all the materials needed to construct one permanent flame tube, along with complete instructions, important safety information and valuable tips for generating resonant frequencies.

Concepts: Sound, compression vs. rarefaction, resonance, standing wave.
Time Required: 25 minutes
Note: A speaker is required and available separately.