Waves

• What equipment is used to measure waves in a liquid?

  • Ripple tank
  • Ruler
  • Camera (or phone)
  • Stopwatch

  
• What is the first step in the method for measuring waves in a liquid?

  Set up the ripple tank with a ruler
• What is the aim of Core Practical 2?

  To investigate equipment for measuring waves
• How should the ruler be positioned in relation to the wavefronts?

  Perpendicular to the wavefronts
• What should you do to make waves visible in the ripple tank?

  Adjust the settings to slow down the waves
• What unit should the wavelength be measured in?

  Metres
• How can you ensure accurate measurements of the waves?

  Take a photo with the ruler visible
• How do you calculate the frequency of the waves?

  Count wavefronts in 10 seconds, divide by 10
• What is the formula to calculate the speed of a wave?

  $v =$$f\lambda$
• What does the variable $t$ represent in the formula $v =$$\frac{d}{t}$?


  Time taken for the wave to travel
• What should you do if the two calculated values for $v$ are close together?


  Suggest the equipment is suitable
• What equipment is used to measure waves in a solid?

  • Metal rod(s)
  • Clamp stands
  • Elastic bands
  • Frequency measuring device
  • Ruler
  • Striking tool
• What is the relationship between the length of the rod and the wavelength?

  The wavelength is twice the length of the rod
• How should the rod be suspended for the experiment?

  Using elastic bands from clamp stands

  
• How do you measure the peak frequency of the rod?

  Strike the rod and use a frequency recorder
• How many times should you strike the rod for accurate results?

  Up to five times
• What should you do after measuring the frequency of different rods?

  Calculate the velocity using $v =$$f\lambda$
• How do you determine if the equipment is suitable after calculations?

  Compare values with researched values