Two Ways to Measure Wave Speed

• What is the purpose of the ripple tank experiment?

  To measure wave speed
• How do you find the average wavelength in a ripple tank?

  Measure distance between shadow lines ten wavelengths apart
• What formula is used to find wave speed?

  v = fλ
• What equipment is used to create waves in a solid?

  Signal generator
• What does the distance between each shadow line represent?

  One wavelength
• How do you adjust the frequency in the solid wave experiment?

  Use the signal generator
• Why is the set-up suitable for measuring wavelength without disturbing waves?

  It allows measurement without interference
• How many half-wavelengths should you measure for accuracy?

  As many as possible
• How do you calculate the full wavelength from the mean half-wavelength?

  Full wavelength = 2 x mean half-wavelength
• What is the significance of having a clear wave on the string?

  It allows accurate measurement of wavelength
• What are the steps to measure wave speed in a ripple tank?

  1. Set up the ripple tank with a lamp.
  2. Measure the distance between shadow lines.
  3. Divide by ten to find average wavelength.
  4. Use the formula v = fλ to find wave speed.
• What are the steps to measure wave speed in a solid?

  1. Connect a dipper to a signal generator.
  2. Adjust frequency until a clear wave appears.
  3. Measure the length of half-wavelengths.
  4. Calculate mean half-wavelength and full wavelength.
  5. Use v = fλ to find wave speed.