Traveling waves demonstrated by a revolving helix: a simple teaching aid.
A simple procedure for the demonstration of traveling waves in actual motion in the classroom is described. Using a matched set of experimental data on a) peak amplitude of basilar membrane oscillations, and b) phase-lag along the membrane, both for a given frequency of stimulation, it is possible to construct a solid spiral, or helix, of constantly changing diameter and pitch. When projected on a screen, the helix will look like a longitudinal amplitude gradient along the basilar membrane; as the helix is rotated, the projection will appear as a traveling wave. It is suggested that the device, because of its inherent simplicity, is a useful aid in a teaching laboratory for future otolaryngologists, audiologists and other professionals related to the field of hearing.
D001298:Audiology / Q000193:education; D001489:Basilar Membrane / Q000502:physiology*; D007758:Ear, Inner / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D010036:Otolaryngology / Q000193:education; D013016:Sound; D013664:Teaching Materials