Physics 5054 · O Level · Refraction of light

Refraction of light — practice question

Some waves are longitudinal, whereas other waves are transverse.
(a)[1]

State how a longitudinal wave is different from a transverse wave.

(b(i))[2]

Calculate the wave’s frequency.

(b(ii))[1]

State what happens to the wave’s frequency as it moves into the right-hand section of the tank.

(b(iii))[2]

Using Fig. 9.1, state and explain how the wave’s speed changes as it enters the right-hand section of the tank.

(c(i))[1]

Underline the words that describe a light wave: electromagnetic, longitudinal, transverse.

(c(ii))[2]

Calculate the angle $r$.

(c(iii)1)[2]

Calculate the critical angle $c$ for light moving through the block.

(c(iii)2)[2]

State and explain what happens to the light as it hits side XY.

(c(iii)3)[2]

On Fig. 9.2, draw the light’s path after it hits side XY at P, and also show the path of the light once it is travelling in the air again.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 15-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: In longitudinal waves, vibrations are parallel to the direction of travel

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