Conceptual Physics Alive - Volume 8: Vibration, Sound, Fission

Vibrations and Sound I: A coiled toy is used to illustrate the difference between transverse and longitudinal waves. Interference of waves and beats of sound are also demonstrated, followed by an explanation of shock waves and sonic booms. Segment length: 32 minutes

Vibrations and Sound II: The reflection, refraction, and speed of sound waves are explained. A discussion of forced vibrations and resonance culminates with exciting historical footage of the collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge in 1940. Segment length: 43 minutes

Radioactivity: The differences between alpha, beta, and gamma radiation are discussed, with emphasis on balancing nuclear equations. Radioactive half-life and techniques for radioactive dating are also explained. Segment length: 40 minutes

Fission and Fusion: Fission and fusion are distinguished and compared. Energy release from nuclear reactions is explained in terms of the resulting mass defects. Muon-induced cold fusion is briefly discussed. Segment length: 36 minutes