Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Stationary waves

Stationary waves — practice question

(a)[2]

State two characteristics of a stationary wave that make it different from a progressive wave.

(b(i))[1]

A loudspeaker emitting sound at frequency $550\ \text{Hz}$ is positioned close to the open end of the tube. The piston is shifted along the tube and a loud sound is heard when the separation $L$ between the piston and the open end is $45\ \text{cm}$. The speed of sound in the tube is $330\ \text{m s}^{-1}$. Show that the sound wavelength in the tube is $60\ \text{cm}$.

(b(ii).1)[2]

On Fig. 4.1, show every displacement node along the tube, using the letter N for each one.

(b(ii).2)[1]

On Fig. 4.1, show every displacement antinode along the tube and label each one with the letter A.

(b)

A long tube is open at one end and is closed at the opposite end by a piston that can be moved along the tube, as shown in Fig. 4.1. A loudspeaker emitting sound at frequency $550\,\text{Hz}$ is placed near the open end of the tube. The piston is shifted along the tube and a loud sound is heard when the distance $L$ between the piston and the open end of the tube is $45\,\text{cm}$. The speed of sound in the tube is $330\,\text{m s}^{-1}$.

(b(ii))[3]

On Fig. 4.1, mark all the positions along the tube of (1) the displacement nodes (use N), (2) the displacement antinodes (use A).

(c)[3]

The frequency of the sound from the loudspeaker in (b) is slowly reduced. Find the lowest frequency at which the tube of length $L = 45\,\text{cm}$ will produce a loud sound.

Worked solution & mark scheme

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