Measuring waves in a ripple tank

• What is one way in which energy may be transferred between stores?

  Waves
• What types of waves transfer energy but not matter?

  Both mechanical and electromagnetic waves
• What is the aim of the ripple tank experiment?

  • To measure the frequency, wavelength, and speed of waves in a ripple tank.
• How is a ripple tank set up for the experiment?

  It is a transparent shallow tray of water with a light shining down onto a white card below.
• What is the best way to generate regular ripples in a ripple tank?

  Using a motor
• What are the steps to measure wavelength in a ripple tank?

  1. Measure the length of a number of waves.
  2. Divide by the number of waves to record wavelength.
  3. Optionally, take a photograph for easier measurement.
• How do you calculate the frequency of waves in a ripple tank?

  Count the number of waves passing a point in ten seconds and divide by ten.
• What is the formula to calculate wave speed?

  Wave speed = frequency × wavelength
• What should be included in the results table for the ripple tank experiment?

  • Lengths of waves (cm)
  • Wavelength (cm)
  • Number of waves in 10 seconds
  • Frequency (Hz)
  • Wave speed (cm/s)
• What are the hazards associated with electrical components near water in the ripple tank experiment?

  Shock and damage to goods
• What control measures should be taken to prevent hazards in the ripple tank experiment?

  Secure electrical components before adding water and take care not to splash.
• What is the purpose of the lamp in the ripple tank experiment?

  • To illuminate the water and make the motion of the ripples visible.
• What is the significance of measuring waves in a ripple tank?

  • It helps understand wave properties such as frequency, wavelength, and speed.