Leaf Springs - Physics Demonstrations - Leaf Springs | Physics Undergraduate Labs

Ensure C-clamps are tightened firmly to prevent the springs from becoming projectiles during oscillation. The springs store elastic potential energy and can cause injury if they detach unexpectedly.

Purpose

Students observe how length and added mass affect the oscillation period of cantilever leaf springs. Varying the clamp point or adding ring masses changes the period, illustrating the dependence of SHM frequency on system parameters.

A thin leaf spring clamped to the edge of a lecture bench with a C-clamp, extending vertically with a brass ring mass near the top, casting a shadow on the chalkboard behind

Figure 1: A leaf spring clamped to the lecture bench edge with a ring mass attached. A fiber optic lamp casts a shadow on the chalkboard for visibility in large halls.

Ring Mass Set

1

Adjustable Leaf Spring

1
Large Leaf Spring

1

Safety Warnings

Warning: Secure Clamping Required

Purpose