Waves

• What is a ripple tank?

  A shallow glass tank for creating waves
• How does a ripple tank visualize waves?

  It is illuminated from above to see waves
• What are the basic steps of the ripple tank practical?

  1. Set up the ripple tank with a lamp and card
  2. Switch on the motor attached to the rod
  3. Measure the wavelength of the waves
  4. Count waves passing a point in 10 seconds
  5. Calculate the wave speed
• What is the recommended water depth for a ripple tank?

  Approximately 5 mm
• What happens if too much water is in the ripple tank?

  Clear waves won't be produced
• How should the wooden rod be positioned in the ripple tank?

  It should just touch the water surface
• How do you measure the wavelengths of waves on the card?

  1. Adjust lamp for clear projection
  2. Measure across as many waves as possible
  3. Divide distance by number of waves
• In what units should wavelength be measured?

  Metres, m
• Why is it important to measure across more than one wave?

  To reduce measurement uncertainty and improve accuracy
• How do you measure the frequency of waves on the card?

  1. Count waves passing a point in 10 seconds
  2. Divide by 10 for frequency in Hz
• What equation is used to calculate wave speed?

  Wave Speed = Frequency x Wavelength
• What is the unit for wave speed when frequency is in Hertz and wavelength in metres?

  Metres per second, m/s
• What are the basic steps of observing waves in a solid practical?

  1. Attach string to a vibration generator and mass hanger
  2. Place wooden bridge under the string
  3. Start generator and adjust tension until waves appear stationary
  4. Measure wavelength and record frequency
  5. Calculate wave speed
• How do you measure the wavelength in the solid wave practical?

  Measure across as many loops as possible
• What is the relationship between loops and wavelength?

  Each loop is a half wavelength
• Where should the frequency value be taken from in the solid wave practical?

  From the frequency generator settings