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Properties of waves

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Question 6

A physics demonstrator uses a long tensioned helical coil to demonstrate different wave types.

a.

Describe how the demonstrator must move one end of the coil to produce a transverse wave along its length.

[1]
b.

Give one example of a transverse wave other than a wave on a string or coil.

[1]
c.

A sound wave demonstrator uses a lightweight horizontal disc inside a vertical tube. The disc is constrained by a guide track to slide vertically up and down. As sound waves pass vertically upwards through the tube, the disc oscillates.

The diagram below shows the profile of the sound wave at a certain instant, where the displacement of air molecules is plotted against position along the tube.

Longitudinal wave in a vertical tube

State the definition of the term wavelength.

[1]
d.

On the displacement graph, the distance between Level P (maximum positive displacement) and Level Q (maximum negative displacement) is 3.6 mm3.6\text{ mm}3.6 mm. Determine the amplitude of the wave.

[1]
e.

The disc reaches its maximum upward position (Level P) every 0.0040 s0.0040\text{ s}0.0040 s. Calculate the frequency of the wave. State the unit.

[3]
f.

Explain how the motion of the disc demonstrates that the sound wave is a longitudinal wave.

[1]
g.

Give one example of a longitudinal wave other than a sound wave in air.

[1]

Properties of waves Questions

  1. IGCSE
  2. /Physics
  3. /Properties of waves