Columbia University Physics Lecture Demonstrations


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3A80.1 Lissajous Figures on the Oscilloscope

[Setup Time: 20 Min.] [Current Condition: OK but not set up with any current equipment.]

Info

Two function generators at different frequencies drive the horizontal and vertical inputs of an oscilloscope, projected on a TV screen.

Give advanced notice

Setup Instructions

1. Hook up the two function generators to Channels 1 and 2 inputs on the oscilloscope. Use ADD mode.

2. Place the oscilloscope on the front bench.

3. Aim the camera toward the oscilloscope and place it on two small blocks on the table to display the images on the TV screen.

4. The ratios of the input frequencies from the function generator should be 2:1, 2.5:1, 3:1, … The signal should be a sine wave with frequencies in the 100s of Hz (use 100x setting on the function generator.

Parts List

Oscilloscope

2 Function Generators

Power Cords

BNC Cables

Note: usually use analog scope.

Relevant Simulation

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Other Information

Lissajous Figures on the Oscilloscope

Real-Life Examples

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More Advanced Reading

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