Photo shows the demonstration used at the University of Texas at Austin.

• Underdamped oscillation: water

• Critically damped oscillation: oil (can be compared to motor oil in a car)

• Overdamped oscillation: aloe vera gel

• Different Q values in oscillation resulting from different viscosities.

• Release each mass with the bottom edge aligned with the top of the graduated cylinder.

• Be CAREFUL not to tip over the glass graduated cylinders.

• Clamp spring apparatus to table.

• Leave masses on table, not attached to the springs.

• Ensure that graduated cylinders are filled to 900 mL.

• After use, thoroughly clean masses to avoid potential damage, and put the caps back on the cylinders before storage.

Last Updated 7/24 - University of Texas at Austin Physics Dept. - All Rights Reserved.