Physics 5054 · O Level · General properties of waves

General properties of waves — practice question

Fig. 9.1 illustrates the wavefronts of a water wave in deep water in a ripple tank. The frequency of the wave in deep water is $5.0\,\text{Hz}$.
(a)[2]

Explain what is meant by the frequency of a wave in this context.

(b(i))[1]

Determine the wavelength of the deep-water wave.

(b(ii))[2]

Calculate the speed for the wave in deep water.

(c(i))[2]

The wave moves from deep water into shallow water. The wave speed is lower in the shallow region. State and explain how this changes the wavelength of the wave.

(c(ii))[3]

On Fig. 9.2, add the wavefronts for the shallow water region.

(d(i))[2]

Describe one difference between a sound wave and a water wave in their motion.

(d(ii))[3]

The speed of sound in carbon dioxide gas is lower than the speed of sound in air. Using this fact, or otherwise, describe an experiment to demonstrate the refraction of sound waves. You may add a diagram of your apparatus.

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