RP: 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 a ripple tank used for?

  • To measure and calculate frequency, wavelength, and speed of waves
  • It is a transparent shallow tray of water
  • Light shines through to visualize ripples
• How can regular ripples be generated in a ripple tank?

  By using a motor
• What is the aim of the ripple tank experiment?

  To measure the frequency, wavelength, and speed of waves
• What are the steps to set up a ripple tank for the experiment?

  1. Set up the ripple tank with about 5 cm depth of water
  2. Adjust the height of the wooden rod to touch the water surface
  3. Switch on the lamp and motor for low frequency waves
• How do you measure the wavelength in a ripple tank experiment?

  Measure the length of 10 waves and divide by 10
• What is a practical method to record wavelength in a ripple tank?

  Take a photograph of the waves with a ruler across them and measure from the still picture
• How do you calculate the frequency of waves in the ripple tank experiment?

  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?

  • Length of 12 waves (cm)
  • Wavelength (cm)
  • Number of waves in 10 seconds
  • Frequency (Hz)
  • Wave speed (cm/s)
• What is a hazard associated with electrical components near water in the ripple tank experiment?

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

  Secure electrical components before adding water and avoid splashing
• What are the key components of the ripple tank experiment setup?

  • Ripple tank (transparent shallow tray)
  • Water (about 5 cm depth)
  • Wooden rod (to create ripples)
  • Lamp (to illuminate the tank)
  • Motor (to generate regular ripples)