Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Stationary waves

Stationary waves — practice question

A string PQ is stretched to a length of $1.2\,\text{m}$. One end is connected to a vibration generator and the other end is fixed to a wall, as illustrated in Fig. 5.1. When the generator is turned on, a stationary wave appears on the string. The string is displayed at one moment in time in Fig. 5.2.
(a)[2]

Explain how a stationary wave is formed between the vibration generator and the wall.

(b)[1]

Calculate the wavelength of the stationary wave shown in Fig. 5.2.

(c)[2]

Fig. 5.3 shows the stationary wave at time $t = 0$ when every point on the wave has its maximum displacement. The period of the wave is $0.16\,\text{s}$. On Fig. 5.3, sketch the form of the stationary wave at time $t = 0.24\,\text{s}$.

(d)[1]

Points R and T on the string are separated horizontally by $0.30\,\text{m}$ and are shown in the positions in Fig. 5.4. State the phase difference between the oscillations of points R and T.

(e)[2]

Calculate the speed of the progressive waves on the stretched string.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Waves travel along the string and are reflected at the fixed end

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI