This paper is a review of all published experiments concerning the production, propagation and utilization of the slow, or torsional plasma wave (the ion-cyclotron wave) at frequencies in the neighborhood of the ion cyclotron frequency. A brief summary of the theory of propagation and absorption of ion cyclotron waves is followed by a historical survey of the experimental work in this field. The various methods of wave generation are described, with major emphasis on the use of induction coils and radial electric fields. The experimental verification of the dispersion relation is discussed. The measurement of power in the wave, the damping of the wave by ion cyclotron absorption, and the heating of plasma by this means are described in detail. The results to date and some of the problems to be solved in the future are summarized. A complete bibliography of published work in this subject is appended.