In physics, a ripple tank is a shallow glass tank of water used to demonstrate the basic properties of waves. It is a specialized form of a wave tank. The ripple tank is usually illuminated from above, so that the light shines through the water.

What is the purpose of a ripple tank?

A ripple tank can be used to measure and calculate frequency, wavelength and the speed of waves on the water's surface. A ripple tank is a transparent shallow tray of water with a light shining down through it onto a white card below.

What is a ripple tank in physics?

Description. The ripple tank consists of a shallow tray of water with an overhead light source to illuminate the ripples in the water. The light source can be strobed so that the waves are made to look as if they are stationary.