Quick Answer: The Slinky Spring is a 165 mm helical coil of flat-section steel wire used to demonstrate transverse and longitudinal waves, compressions, rarefactions and wave propagation.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
165 mm helical coil of flat-section steel wire
Sideways or up-and-down movement shows transverse waves
Pushing and pulling along its length forms compressions and rarefactions
Manual operation with no electricity required
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Size
165 mm
Material
Flat-section steel wire in helical coil
Application
Demonstration of different types of waves
Power requirement
No electricity required
About This Product
Two students hold the ends on a smooth floor or long table and stretch the spring slightly without overstretching it. Moving one end sideways sends a transverse wave along the coil, while pushing and pulling along its length sends compressions and rarefactions, helping explain sound as a longitudinal wave along with wavelength, amplitude and frequency. Export supply of the Slinky Spring can be arranged to laboratories and schools in Brunei, United Kingdom, Honduras, Australia, Oman and Burkina Faso.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the difference between the two wave types shown? In a transverse wave the coils move perpendicular to the direction of wave travel; in a longitudinal wave they move along it, forming compressions and rarefactions.