FOOTBRIDGE RESONANCE

mechanics

Description of the device

A classic experiment that demonstrates resonance phenomenon.

Phenomenon

Stepping and walking on the footbridge causes its vibrations. If the frequency of deflection matches the frequency of the footbridge’s own vibrations, the amplitude is large. Excitation frequency that results in the largest deflections is called resonant frequency.

How to use it

Walk on the footbridge back and forth a few times, each time trying to take steps with a different rhythm. What do you observe?