(a) Sound waves are longitudinal waves. By reference to the direction of propagation of energy, state what is meant by a longitudinal wave. (b) A stationary sound wave in air has amplitude A. In an experiment, a detector is used to determine A². The variation of A² with distance x along the wave is shown in Fig. 4.1. [Figure 4.1]
- (a)Sound waves are longitudinal waves. By reference to the direction of propagation of energy, state what is meant by a longitudinal wave.[1]
- (b)(i)State the phase difference between the vibrations of an air particle at x = 25 cm and the vibrations of an air particle at x = 50 cm. phase difference = °[1]
- (b)(ii)The speed of the sound in the air is 330 ms⁻¹. Determine the frequency of the sound wave. frequency = Hz[3]
- (b)(iii)Determine the ratio amplitude A of wave at x = 20 cm -------------------------------------------------------------- amplitude A of wave at x = 25 cm ratio = [2]
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Mark scheme
Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2018). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.
- [B1] vibration(s)/oscillation(s) (of particles) parallel to direction of propagation of energy
- [A1] phase difference = 180°
- [C1] v = fλ
- [C1] λ/2 = 25 (cm) or 0.25 (m)
- [A1] f = 330/0.50
- [A1] = 660 Hz
- [C1] (readings from graph =) 2.6 and 4.0
- [C1] ratio = (2.6/4.0)¹/²
- [A1] = 0.81
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