Tuning fork

Made:
1701-1900 in Europe
Simple tuning fork, European, 18th or 19th century

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Simple tuning fork, European, 18th or 19th century
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Simple tuning fork, probably European, 1701-1900.

Tuning forks of this type are used in audiology. They assess the extent of any hearing loss. The fork is hit against a hard surface. The resulting vibrations create a pure sound. D

There are two types of tuning fork tests in general use: the Weber test and the Rinne test. The Weber test is to see which ear a person is experiencing loss of hearing from. The Rinne test uses a tuning fork at the base of the skull and then the ear. The patient is then asked which one was louder. A person with no hearing loss says the fork nearest the ear is louder.

Details

Category:
Audiology
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A625200
Materials:
metal
Measurements:
overall: 2 mm x 225 mm x 13 mm, .02kg
type:
tuning fork