Sound Wave Propagation from Underdamped Free Oscillation of Metallic Cantilever Beams

We describe here a low-cost experiment for introductory physics students where they compare the physical properties of aluminum and steel by means of cantilever oscillations. This, in turn, allows the students to improve their physical intuition about these materials. Further, the students can apply their physics and mathematics knowledge and skills to create an experiment-based physical model.