Physics 5054 · O Level · Sound

Sound — practice question

The sound wave from a vibrating tuning fork is shown on the oscilloscope in Fig. 4.1. It is picked up by a microphone.
(a)[2]

Describe how the air particles move as the sound wave travels from the tuning fork to the microphone.

(b(i))[1]

State what the term ‘frequency’ means.

(b(ii))[2]

The trace in Fig. 4.2 is formed in $0.050\,\text{s}$.\n\nCalculate the frequency of the sound wave.

(b(iii))[1]

A student near the tuning fork observes the trace and listens to the sound. He notices that the amplitude of the trace decreases.\n\nState how the sound heard by the student changes.

(b(iv))[1]

The tuning fork is replaced by a new tuning fork that produces a sound wave of half the frequency. The controls on the oscilloscope are not changed.\n\nOn Fig. 4.3, draw the trace obtained with the new tuning fork. The trace obtained with the original tuning fork is shown.

(c(i))[2]

On Fig. 4.4, draw the three wavefronts after they pass through the gap.

(c(ii))[1]

State the name of the process involved as the wavefronts pass through the gap and reach P.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 10-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The particles move backwards and forwards / get closer together and farther apart

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