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HIGHER SECONDARY FIRST YEAR-PHYSICS

NAME :
STANDARD : 11 SECTION :
SCHOOL :
EXAM NO :

victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc, M.Phil, B.Ed.,

PG ASST (PHYSICS)
GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502
11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION

PART – I 1 MARK MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS 4. Which of the following options is correct?.
1. A student tunes his guitar by striking a 120 Hertz with a tuning fork, and A B
simultaneously plays the 4th string on his guitar. By keen observation, he hears (1) Quality (A) Intensity
the amplitude of the combined sound oscillating thrice per second. Which of the (2) Pitch (B) Waveform
following frequencies is the most likely the frequency of the 4th string on his
(3) Loudness (C) Frequency
guitar?.
a) 130 b) 117 c) 110 d) 120 Options for (1), (2) and (3), respectively are
Solution :- a) (B),(C) and (A) b) (C), (A) and (B)
 The frequency of sound produced by the strings be 𝑓1 & 𝑓2 c) (A), (B) and (C) d) (B), (A) and (C)
Solution :-
 Given that, the beat frequency ; 𝑛 = |𝑓1 − 𝑓2 | = 3
 Pitch of sound depends upon frequency .
 Here, 𝑓1 = 120 𝐻𝑧, then 𝑓2 = 𝑓1 ± 3 = 120 ± 3 = 123 (𝑜𝑟) 117
 Quality of sound depends upon waveform .
Answer (b) 𝟏𝟏𝟕  Loudness of sound depends upon intensity .
2. A transverse wave moves from a medium A to a medium B. In medium A, the (𝑩), (𝑪) 𝒂𝒏𝒅 (𝑨)
Answer (a)
velocity of the transverse wave is 500 ms-1 and the wavelength is 5 m. The
5. Compare the velocities of the wave forms given below, and choose the correct
frequency and the wavelength of the wave in medium B when its velocity is
-1 option. where, vA, vB, vC and
600 ms , respectively are
a) 120 Hz and 5 m b) 100 Hz and 5 m v D are velocities given in

c) 120 Hz and 6 m d) 100 Hz and 6 m (A), (B), (C) and (D),

Solution :- respectively.
 we know that, 𝑣 = 𝜆 𝜈 (a ) vA > vB > vD > vC
 When waves move from medium A to medium B, its velocity, wavelength alone ( b) vA< vB < vD < vC
changed, But its frequency does not change. (c) vA = vB = vD = vC
𝑣 500 (d) vA > vB = vD > vC
 Hence 𝑣𝐴 = 𝜆𝐴 𝜈 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑣 = 𝐴 = = 100 𝐻𝑧
𝜆𝐴 5
𝑣 600 Solution :-
 Also, 𝑣𝐵 = 𝜆𝐵 𝜈 (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆𝐵 = 𝐵 = = 6𝑚  In the given medium, velocity of the waves always remains constant. Hence, all
𝜈 100
Answer (b) 𝟏𝟎𝟎 𝑯𝒛 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝟔 𝒎 waves travel with same velocity .
3. For a particular tube, among six harmonic frequencies below 1000 Hz, only four Answer (c) vA = vB = vD = vC
harmonic frequencies are given : 300 Hz, 600 Hz, 750 Hz and 900 Hz. What are 6. A sound wave whose frequency is 5000 Hz travels in air and then hits the water
the two other frequencies missing from this list?. surface. Th e ratio of its wavelengths in water and air is
a) 100 Hz, 150 Hz b) 150 Hz, 450 Hz a) 4.30 b) 0.23 c) 5.30 d) 1.23
c) 450 Hz, 700 Hz d) 700 Hz, 800 Hz Solution :-
Solution :-  Velocity of sound in air ; 𝑣𝑎 = 343 𝑚 𝑠 −1
 For open organ pipe ; 𝑓1 ∶ 𝑓2 : 𝑓3 … = 1 ∶ 2 ∶ 3 ∶ …  Velocity of sound in water ; 𝑣𝑤 = 1480 𝑚 𝑠 −1
 Hence, 𝑓2 = 2 𝑓1 , 𝑓3 = 3 𝑓1 , 𝑓4 = 4 𝑓1 , 𝑓5 = 5 𝑓1 , 𝑓6 = 6 𝑓1  By definition, 𝑣𝑎 = 𝜆𝑎 𝜈 and 𝑣𝑤 = 𝜆𝑤 𝜈 Hence, 𝑎 = 𝑎
𝑣 𝜆 𝜈

 If 𝑓1 = 100 𝐻𝑧, 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑓2 = 2 𝑓1 = 2 × 100 = 200 𝐻𝑧 which is not in the list 𝜆𝑤 𝑣𝑤 1480
𝑣𝑤 𝜆 𝑤𝜈

 If 𝑓1 = 150 𝐻𝑧, 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑓2 = 2 𝑓1 = 2 × 150 = 300 𝐻𝑧  Thus the ratio of wavelength, = = ≈ 4.30
𝜆𝑎 𝑣𝑎 343
𝑓3 = 3 𝑓1 = 3 × 150 = 450 𝐻𝑧 Answer (a) 4.30
𝑓4 = 4 𝑓1 = 4 × 150 = 600 𝐻𝑧
𝑓5 = 5 𝑓1 = 5 × 150 = 750 𝐻𝑧
𝑓6 = 6 𝑓1 = 6 × 150 = 900 𝐻𝑧
 So the list of six harmonic frequencies with missing frequencies is
150 Hz, 300 Hz, 450 Hz, 600 Hz, 750 Hz and 900 Hz
Answer (b) 𝟏𝟓𝟎 𝑯𝒛 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝟒𝟓𝟎 𝑯𝒛

victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed PG ASST [PHYSICS], GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502
 11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
7. A person standing between two parallel hills fires a gun and hears the first echo 10. Consider two uniform wires vibrating simultaneously in their fundamental
after t1 sec and the second echo after t2 sec. The distance between the two hills is notes. The tensions, densities, lengths and diameter of the two wires are in the
𝑣 (𝑡1 −𝑡2 ) 𝑣 (𝑡1 𝑡2 ) ratio 8 : 1, 1 : 2, x : y and 4 : 1 respectively. If the note of the higher pitch has a
a) b)
2 2 (𝑡1 +𝑡2 ) frequency of 360 Hz and the number of beats produced per second is 10, then
𝑣 (𝑡1 +𝑡2 ) the value of x : y is
c) 𝑣(𝑡1 + 𝑡2 ) d)
2 a) 36 : 35 b) 35 : 36
Solution :- c) 1 : 1 d) 1 : 2
 Let two hills are at a distances ‘x’ and ‘y’ Solution :-
from the person.  Given that, 𝑇1 : 𝑇2 = 8 ∶ 1 𝜌1 : 𝜌2 = 1 ∶ 2 𝑙1 : 𝑙2 = 𝑥 ∶ 𝑦 𝑑1 : 𝑑2 = 4 ∶ 1
 During the time t1 the sound will travel a  The frequency of waves produced in stretched string is,
distance 𝑥 + 𝑥 = 2𝑥 and during the time
t2, sound will travel the distance 𝑦 + 𝑦 = 1 𝑇 1 4𝑇 𝑚 𝑚𝐴 𝑚𝐴 𝑑2
𝑓= √ = √ [∵ 𝜇 = = = = 𝜌 𝐴 = 𝜌 𝜋 𝑟2 = 𝜌 𝜋 ]
2𝑦 2 𝑙 𝜇 2 𝑙 𝜌 𝜋𝑑 2 𝑙 𝑙𝐴 𝑉 4
 Let ‘v’ be the velocity of the sound, then 1 4 𝑇1
2𝑥 𝑣 𝑡1 2𝑦 𝑣 𝑡2  For first string, 𝑓1 = √𝜌
𝑣= (𝑜𝑟) 𝑥 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣 = (𝑜𝑟) 𝑦 = 2 𝑙1
1 𝜋𝑑21
𝑡1 2 𝑡2 2
1 4 𝑇2
 Thus, the distance between two hills,  For second string, 𝑓2 = √𝜌
𝑣 𝑡1 𝑣 𝑡2 𝑣 (𝑡1 + 𝑡2 ) 2 𝑙2 2 𝜋𝑑22
𝑥+𝑦 = + = 1 4 𝑇1
2 2 2 𝑓1 2 𝑙1 √𝜌1 𝜋𝑑2 𝑙 𝑇 𝜌 𝑑2 𝑦 8 2 1 𝑦 16 𝑦
𝒗 (𝒕𝟏 + 𝒕𝟐 )  Thus the ratio, = 1
= 𝑙2 √𝑇1 𝜌2 𝑑22 = 𝑥 √1 × 1 × 16 = √ =𝑥
Answer (d) 𝑓2 1 4 𝑇2 1 2 1 1 𝑥 16
√𝜌 𝜋𝑑2
𝟐 2 𝑙2 2 2
8. An air column in a pipe which is closed at one end, will be in resonance with the 𝑥 𝑓2
∴ =
vibrating body of frequency 83Hz. Then the length of the air column is 𝑦 𝑓1
a) 1.5 m b) 0.5 m c) 1.0 m d) 2.0 m  Given , beat frequency ; 𝑛 = 𝑓2 − 𝑓1 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑓1 = 𝑓2 − 𝑛 = 360 − 10 = 350 𝐻𝑧
Solution :- 𝑥 𝑓2 360 36
 L be the length of the closed organ pipe. Here the fundamental ∴ = = =
𝑦 𝑓1 350 35
note has one node (N) and one anti node (AN). Hence, Answer (a) 𝒙 ∶ 𝒚 = 𝟑𝟔 ∶ 𝟑𝟓
𝜆 𝑣 332 332
𝐿= = = = =1 11. Which of the following represents a wave?
4 4𝑓 4 × 83 332 a) (𝑥 − 𝑣𝑡)3 b) 𝑥(𝑥 + 𝑣𝑡)
Answer (c) 𝟎. 𝟏 𝒎 1
c) d) 𝑠𝑖𝑛(𝑥 + 𝑣𝑡)
9. The displacement y of a wave travelling in the x direction is (𝑥+𝑣 𝑡)
𝝅 Solution :-
given by 𝒚 = (𝟐 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟑 ) 𝐬𝐢𝐧 (𝟑𝟎𝟎 𝒕 − 𝟐𝒙 + ) , where x and y are measured
𝟒  The basic formula of a wave need to contain, 𝑦(𝑥, 𝑡) = 𝑓(𝑥 ± 𝑣 𝑡) = 𝑓(𝑘𝑥 ± 𝜔 𝑡)
in metres and t in second. The speed of the wave is  For every value of ‘t’, it will continuous, exists single valued function
a) 150 ms-1 b) 300 ms-1 c) 450 ms-1 d) 600 ms-1  The basic requirements for a wave function to represent a travelling wave is that
Solution :- for all values of 𝑥 and 𝑡, wave function must have finite value.
 Standard equation is, 𝑦 = 𝐴 sin(𝜔𝑡 − 𝑘𝑥 + 𝜙)  only (d) among the four functions is finite everywhere at all times, Hence only
𝜋
 Given equation is ; 𝒚 = (2 × 10−3 ) sin (300 𝑡 − 2𝑥 + ) (d) represents a travelling wave.
4
 Thus, 𝐴 = 2 × 10−3 ; 𝜔 = 300 ; 𝑘=2 ; 𝜙=
𝜋
Answer (d) 𝒔𝒊𝒏(𝒙 + 𝒗𝒕)
4
𝜔 300
 The speed of the wave is given by ; 𝑣= 𝑘
= 2
= 150 𝑚𝑠 −1
Answer (a) 𝟏𝟓𝟎 𝒎𝒔−𝟏

victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed PG ASST [PHYSICS], GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502
11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
12. A man sitting on a swing which is moving to an angle of 60° from the vertical is 14. A uniform rope having mass M hangs vertically from a rigid support. A
blowing a whistle which has a frequency of 2.0 k Hz. The whistle is 2.0 m from the transverse wave pulse is produced at the lower end. Which of the following plots
fixed support point of the swing. A sound detector which detects the whistle shows the correct variation of speed v with height h from the lower end?
sound is kept in front of the swing. The maximum frequency the sound detector
detected is
a) 2.027 kHz b) 1.974 kHz c) 9.74 kHz d) 1.011 kHz
Solution :-
1 a) b) c) d)
 Here, ℎ = 𝑙 − 𝑙 cos 𝜃 = 𝑙 (1 − cos 60°) = 2 (1 − ) = 1 𝑚
2
Solution :-
 Velocity of sound in air ; 𝑣 = 332 𝑚𝑠 −1
𝑇
 From equation motion, velocity of the source of  Velocity of the transverse wave pulse in rope is, 𝑉 = √
𝜇
sound
 Here, 𝜇 is mass per unit height of the rope. then mass of the
𝑣𝑤2 = 𝑢𝑤
2
+2𝑔ℎ [∵
small element of height ‘h’ is ; 𝑚 = 𝜇 ℎ
𝑢𝑤 = 0]
 In the figure, 𝑇 = 𝑚 𝑔 = 𝜇 ℎ 𝑔
𝑣𝑤2 = 2 𝑔 ℎ (𝑜𝑟) 𝑣𝑤 = √2 𝑔 ℎ 𝑇 𝜇ℎ𝑔
𝑣𝑤 = √2 × 10 × 1 = √20 = 4.48 𝑚𝑠 −1  Hence , 𝑉 = √ = √ = √ℎ 𝑔 (or) 𝑉 2 = 𝑔 ℎ
𝜇 𝜇
 The apparent frequency increases when source of  This is similar to 𝑦 2 = 𝑘 𝑥 which is the equation for parabola.
sound (whistle) moves towards the stationary  So, V versus h graph must be a parabola, and hence option (a)
observer (detector) and it is given by. and (b) will be ruled out.
𝑣 332 664
𝑛𝑚𝑎𝑥 = [ ]𝑛 = [ ] 2 𝑘𝐻𝑧 = 𝑘𝐻𝑧 = 2.027 𝑘𝐻𝑧  If ℎ = 0 then 𝑉 2 = 0.
𝑣 − 𝑣𝑤 332 − 4.48 327.52  So Option (c) also be ruled out, because, 𝑉 2 has some value for ℎ = 0
Answer (a) 𝟐. 𝟎𝟐𝟕 𝒌𝑯𝒛  So option (d) is correct
𝟏
13. Let 𝒚 = at t = 0 s be the amplitude of the wave propagating in the positive
𝟏+ 𝒙𝟐
x-direction. At t = 2 s, the amplitude of the wave propagating becomes Answer (d)
𝟏
𝒚 = 𝟏+ (𝒙−𝟐)𝟐. Assume that the shape of the wave does not change during
15. An organ pipe A closed at one end is allowed to vibrate in its first harmonic and
propagation. The velocity of the wave is another pipe B open at both ends is allowed to vibrate in its third harmonic.
a) 0.5m s-1 b) 1.0m s-1 c) 1.5m s-1 d) 2.0m s-1 Both A and B are in resonance with a given tuning fork. The ratio of the length
Solution :- of A and B is
8 3 1 1
 At t = 0, initial position of the wave in x -direction a) 3 b) 8 c) 6 d) 3
1 1 1 1 Solution :-
𝑦= (𝑜𝑟) 1 + 𝑥2 = (𝑜𝑟) 𝑥2 = −1 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑥𝑖 = √( − 1)
1 + 𝑥2 𝑦 𝑦 𝑦  Let velocity of sound in air be 𝑣
(2𝑛−1) 𝑣
 At t =2s, final position of the wave in x - direction  For closed organ pipe A of length 𝐿1 , the frequency will be; 𝑓𝑛𝐶 =
1 1 1 4 𝐿1
𝑦= (𝑜𝑟) 1 + (𝑥 − 2)2 = (𝑜𝑟) (𝑥 − 2)2 = − 1 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑣
1 + (𝑥 − 2)2 𝑦 𝑦 Hence for first harmonic (𝑛 = 1) we have, 𝑓1𝐶 = 4 𝐿1
𝑛𝑣
1 1  For open organ pipe B of length 𝐿2 , the frequency will be; 𝑓𝑛𝑂 =
𝑥 − 2 = √ − 1 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑥𝑓 = √ − 1 + 2 2 𝐿2
𝑦 𝑦 Hence for third harmonic (𝑛 = 3) we have, 𝑓3𝑂 =
3𝑣
2 𝐿2
1 1 𝑣 3𝑣 𝐿1 2𝑣 1
 Hence Displacemet ; 𝑥 = 𝑥𝑓 − 𝑥𝑖 = √( − 1) + 2 − √( − 1) = 2 𝑚  At resonance, 𝑓1𝐶 = 𝑓3𝑂 (𝑜𝑟) = (𝑜𝑟) = =6
𝑦 𝑦 4 𝐿1 2 𝐿2 𝐿2 12 𝑣
𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 2𝑚
𝟏
 Thus velocity, 𝑣 = = = 1 𝑚 𝑠 −1
𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 2𝑠 Answer (c)
Answer (b) 𝟏𝒎𝒔 −𝟏 𝟔

victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed PG ASST [PHYSICS], GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502
 11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
9. Define angular frequency.
PART – II & III 2 AND 3 MARK SHORT ANSWER QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
 The number of cycles or revolutions per second is called angular frequency (𝜔)
1. Define wave or wave motion.  Its S.I unit is radian per second (rad/s)
 The disturbance which carries energy and momentum from one point in space to 10. Define wave number.
another point in space without the transfer of the medium is known as a wave.  The number of cycles (or) waves per unit distance is called wave number
2. What are the types of wave motion? Give example. 2𝜋
[𝑘 = ] Its S.I unit is radian per metre (rad/m)
1) Mechanical wave : 
11. Obtain the relation between frequency and wavelength.
 Waves which require a medium for propagation are known as mechanical waves.
 Frequency is inversely proportional to wavelength. (i.e.)
(e.g.) sound waves, ripples formed on the surface of water, etc., 1
2) Non mechanical wave : 𝑓 ∝ (𝑜𝑟) 𝑓  = constant

 Waves which do not require a medium for propagation are known as non  Using dimensional analysis, the constant can be determined as follows.
mechanical waves. (e.g.) light (electromagnetic wave)  The dimension of “f” = [𝑇 −1 ]
3. What is electromagnetic waves and Rayleigh waves?  The dimension of “” = [L]
 The linked electric and magnetic disturbances which travel through vacuum  Then the dimension of "𝑓 " = [𝐿 𝑇 −1 ]=𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑜𝑐𝑖𝑦
having wave property is called electromagnetic waves.  Therefore 𝒗𝒆𝒍𝒐𝒄𝒊𝒚 ; 𝒗= 𝒇
 The mixture of transverse and longitudinal waves is considered as Rayleigh 12. Define wave velocity.
waves  Wave velocity (or) phase velocity is the distance travelled by a wave in one
4. What are the properties of wave motion? second and it is given by 𝒗= 𝒇 
 For the propagation of wave, the medium must possess both inertia and 13. Define wave vector.
elasticity.  The wave vector ( 𝑘 ) is a vector which points the direction of wave propagation.
 In the given medium, the velocity of a wave is a constant. But the constituent  It s magnitude is equal to wave number
particles in that medium move with different velocities at different positions. 14. Give the relation between velocity (𝒗), angular velocity (𝝎) and wave number (k)
Velocity is maximum at their mean position and zero at extreme positions.  The wave velocity or phase velocity is given by,
 Waves undergo reflections, refraction, interference, diffraction and polarization. 2𝜋𝑓 [2 𝜋 𝑓] 𝝎
𝒗= 𝒇 = = =
5. Distinguish between transverse and longitudinal waves. 2𝜋 [2 𝜋/ ] 𝒌
Transverse waves Longitudinal waves 15. Define amplitude of the wave.
The direction of vibration of particles of The direction of vibration of particles of  An amplitude of the wave is defined as the maximum displacement of the
the medium is perpendicular to the the medium is parallel to the direction of medium with respect to a reference axis and it is denoted by ‘A’
direction of propagation of waves propagation of waves 16. Write down the factors affecting velocity of sound in gases.
The disturbances are in the form of crests The disturbances are in the form of 1) Effect of pressure :
and troughs compressions and rarefactions  For a fixed temperature, when the pressure varies, correspondingly density also
𝑷
Transverse waves are possible in elastic Longitudinal waves are possible in all varies such that the ratio ( ) becomes constant. This means that the speed of
𝝆
medium types of media (solid. Liquid and gas)
sound is independent of pressure for a fixed temperature.
6. Define wavelength.
 If the temperature remains same at the top and the bottom of a mountain then the
 For transverse waves, the distance between two neighbouring crests or troughs speed of sound will remain same at these two points.
is known as the wavelength (). For longitudinal waves. the distance between 2) Effect of temperature :
two neighbouring compressions or rarefactions is known as the wavelength ().  Velocity of sound in gas is given by,
 The S.I. unit of wavelength is metre (m)
7. Define time period. 𝑃𝛾
𝑣 =√ = √𝛾 𝑐 𝑇 [∵ 𝑐 = 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡]
 Time period (T) is defined as the time taken by one wave to cross a point. 𝜌
 The S.I. unit of time period is second (s) (𝑜𝑟) 𝑣 ∝ √𝑇
8. Define frequency.
 Thus the speed of sound varies directly to the square root of temperature in
 Frequency (f)is defined as number of waves crossing a point per second. kelvin.
 The S.I unit of frequency is hertz (Hz)
victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed PG ASST [PHYSICS], GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502
 11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
 Let v0 be the speed of sound at temperature at 0° C or 273 K and v be the speed of 18. State laws of reflection of sound.
sound at any arbitrary temperature T (in kelvin), then 1) The angle of incidence of sound is equal to the angle of reflection.
𝑣𝑜 ∝ √273 & 𝑣𝑡 ∝ √273 + 𝑡 2) When the sound wave is reflected by a surface then the incident wave, reflected
1 wave and the normal at the point of incidence all lie in the same plane.
𝑣𝑡 273 + 𝑡 𝑡 2 1 𝑡 𝑡 19. Define specular reflection.
∴ = √ = [1 + ] = [1 + ( )] ≅ 1 +
𝑣𝑜 273 273 2 273 546  Reflection of sound from a harder flat surface is called as specular reflection.
𝑡 𝑡 331  Specular reflection is observed only when the wavelength of the source is
𝑣𝑡 = 𝑣𝑜 [1 + ] = 331 [1 + ] = 331 + 𝑡 smaller than dimensions of the reflecting surface, as well as smaller than
546 546 546
surface irregularities.
𝒗𝒕 = (𝟑𝟑𝟏 + 𝟎. 𝟔𝟏 𝒕 ) 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏
20. Write short notes on reflection of sound waves from plane and curved surfaces.
 Thus the speed of sound in air increases by 0.61 ms-1 per degree celcius rise in Reflection of sound through the plane surface :
temperature
 When the sound waves hit the plane wall, they bounce off in a manner similar to
3) Effect of density :
that of light.
 Let us consider two gases with different densities having same temperature and
 Suppose a loudspeaker is kept at an angle with respect to a wall (plane surface),
pressure. Then the speed of sound in the two gases are
then the waves coming from the
𝑃 𝛾1 𝑃 𝛾2 source can be treated as spherical
𝑣1 = √ & 𝑣2 = √
𝜌1 𝜌2 wave fronts. Therefore, the reflected
wave front from the plane surface is
𝑣1 𝜌2 𝛾1 also spherical, such that its centre of
∴ =√
𝑣1 𝜌1 𝛾2 curvature can be treated as the
image of the sound source (virtual or
 For gases having same value of γ, imaginary loud speaker).
𝒗𝟏 𝝆𝟐 Reflection of sound through the curved surface :
=√
𝒗𝟏 𝝆𝟏

𝟏
(𝑜𝑟) 𝒗 ∝ √
𝝆
 Thus the velocity of sound in a gas is inversely proportional to the square root of
the density of the gas.
4) Effect of moisture (humidity):
 We know that density of moist air is 0.625 of that of dry air, which means the
presence of moisture in air (increase in humidity) decreases its density.
Therefore, speed of sound increases with rise in humidity.
5) Effect of wind:
 The speed of sound is also affected by blowing of wind.
 In the direction along the wind blowing, the speed of sound increases whereas
in the direction opposite to wind blowing, the speed of sound decreases.
17. What is meant by reflection and refraction of sound?
Reflection of sound:
 If the medium is highly dense (highly rigid), the sound can be reflected
completely (bounced back) to the original medium.
Refraction of sound:
 When the sound waves propagate from one medium to another medium such
that there can be some energy loss due to absorption by the second medium.
victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed
 The sound reflected from a convex surface is spread out and so it is easily
attenuated and weakened.
 But if it is reflected from the concave surface it will converge at a point and this
can be easily amplified.
 The parabolic reflector (curved reflector) which is used to focus the sound
precisely to a point is used in designing the parabolic mics which are known as
high directional microphones.
 We know that any surface (smooth or rough) can absorb sound. To avoid such
losses, a curved sound board (concave board) is kept in front of the speaker, so
that the board reflects the sound waves of the speaker towards the audience.
 This method will minimize the spreading of sound waves in all possible
directions in that hall and also enhances the uniform distribution of sound
throughout the hall.
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21. Explain the applications of reflection of sound waves.
1) Stethoscope:
 It works on the principle of multiple reflections. It consists of three main
parts namely (i) Chest piece (ii) Ear piece (iii) Rubber tube
(i) Chest piece: It consists of a small disc-shaped resonator (diaphragm)
which is very sensitive to sound and amplifies the sound it detects.
(ii) Ear piece: It is made up of metal tubes which are used to hear sounds
detected by the chest piece.
(iii) Rubber tube: This tube connects both chest piece and ear piece. It is used
to transmit the sound signal detected by the diaphragm, to the ear piece.
The sound of heart beats (or lungs) or any sound produced by internal
organs can be detected, and it reaches the ear piece through this tube by
multiple refl ections.
2) Echo:
 An echo is a repetition of sound produced by the refl ection of sound waves
from a wall, mountain or other obstructing surfaces. The speed of sound in
air at 20°C is 344 m s–1. If we shout at a wall which is at 344 m away, then
the sound will take 1 second to reach the wall.
 After reflection, the sound will take one more second to reach us. Therefore,
we hear the echo after two seconds.
 we can hear two sounds properly if the time gap or time interval between
each sound (i.e. persistence of hearing) is 0.1 s. Then, the minimum distance
from a sound reflecting wall to hear an echo at 20°C is 17.2 meter.
3) SONAR: (SOund NAvigation and Ranging)
 Sonar systems make use of reflections of sound waves in water to locate the
position or motion of an object.
 Similarly, dolphins and bats use the sonar principle to find their way in the
darkness.
4) Reverberation:
 In a closed room the sound is repeatedly reflected from the walls and it is
even heard long after the sound source ceases to function.
 The residual sound remaining in an enclosure and the phenomenon of
multiple reflections of sound is called reverberation. The duration for which
the sound persists is called reverberation time.
 It should be noted that the reverberation time greatly affects the quality of
sound heard in a hall. Therefore, halls are constructed with some optimum
reverberation time.
22. Explain the classification of sound waves.
Classification of sound waves:
(1) Infrasonic waves:
 Sound waves having frequencies below 20 Hz are called infrasonic waves.
 These waves are produced during earthquakes.
 Human beings cannot hear these frequencies. Snakes can hear these
frequencies.
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COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
(2) Audible waves:
 Sound waves having frequencies between 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (20kHz) are
called audible waves.
 Human beings can hear these frequencies.
(3) Ultrasonic waves:
 Sound waves having frequencies greater than 20 kHz are known as
ultrasonic waves.
 Human beings cannot hear these frequencies.
 Bats can produce and hear these frequencies.
23. What is meant by Supersonic speed?
 An object moving with a speed greater than the speed of sound is said to move
with a supersonic speed.
24. Define Mach number.
 It is the ratio of the velocity of source to the velocity of sound.
25. What is progressive wave (or) travelling wave?
 If a wave that propagates in a medium is continuous then it is known as
progressive wave or travelling wave.
26. List the characteristics of progressive waves.
Characteristics of progressive waves :
 Particles in medium vibrate about their mean positions with the same amplitude.
 The phase of every particle ranges from “0” to “2 ”
 No particle remains at rest permanently. During wave propagation, particles
come to the rest position only twice at the extreme points.
 Transverse progressive waves are characterized by crests and troughs where as
longitudinal progressive waves are characterized by compression and
rarefactions.
 When the particles pass through the mean position they always move with same
maximum velocity.
 The displacement, velocity and acceleration of particles separated from each
other by “𝑛 𝜆” are the same, where “𝑛" is an integer and “𝜆" is the wavelength.
27. Obtain equation of plane progressive waves.
 Suppose we give a jerk on a stretched string at time t = 0 s.
 Let us assume that the wave pulse created during this disturbance moves along
positive x direction with constant speed v
 We can represent the shape of the wave pulse mathematically as 𝒚(𝒙, 𝟎) = 𝒇(𝒙)
at time t = 0 s.
 After some time t, the pulse moving towards the right and any point on it can be
represented by x' Then, 𝒚(𝒙, 𝒕) = 𝒇(𝒙 ) = 𝒇(𝒙 − 𝒗 𝒕)
 Similarly, if the wave pulse moves towards left with constant speed v, then
𝒚(𝒙, 𝒕) = 𝒇(𝒙 ) = 𝒇(𝒙 + 𝒗 𝒕)
 Both waves will satisfy the following one dimensional differential equation
known as the wave equation
𝜕2𝑦 1 𝜕2𝑦
=
𝜕𝑥 2 𝑣 2 𝜕𝑡 2
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 But if the function represents a wave then it must satisfy the differential equation. 31. Explain an experiment to demonstrate the interference of sound waves.
Since, in one dimension (one independent variable), the partial derivative with Demonstration of interference of sound waves :
respect to x is the same as total derivative in coordinate x, we write  A sound wave from a loudspeaker S is sent
𝒅𝟐 𝒚 𝟏 𝒅𝟐 𝒚 through the tube P. This looks like a T-
𝟐
= 𝟐 shaped junction.
𝒅𝒙 𝒗 𝒅𝒕𝟐
 Here, for simplicity, we focus only on the one dimensional wave equation.  In this case, half of the sound energy is sent
28. Briefly explain the concept of superposition principle. in one direction and the remaining half is
Superposition principle: sent in the opposite direction.
 When a jerk is given to a stretched string which is tied at one end, a wave pulse is  Therefore, the sound waves that reach the
produced and it travels along the string. receiver R can travel along either of two
 Suppose the jerk is given at either ends simultaneously, then the two wave pulses paths.
move towards each other, meet at some point and move away from each other  The distance covered by the sound wave
with their original identity. along any path from the speaker to
 Their behavior is different only at the meeting point which depends on their receiver is called the path length . The
shape. difference in path length is known as path
 When the pulses have the same shape at the meeting, the total displacement is difference, ∆𝒓 = |𝒓𝟐 − 𝒓𝟏 |
the algebraic sum of their individual displacements and hence its net amplitude  Suppose the path difference is allowed to be either zero or some integer (or
is higher than the amplitudes of the individual pulses. integral) multiple of wavelength λ. Mathematically, we have
 Whereas if the two pulsed have same amplitude but shapes are 180° out of ∆𝒓 = 𝒏 𝝀 [where, n = 0, 1, 2, 3,.... ]
phase at the meeting point, the net amplitude vanishes at that point and the Then the two waves arriving from the paths r1 and r2 reach the receiver at any
pulses will recover their identities after crossing. instant are in phase (the phase difference is 0° or 2π) and interfere
 This property is called superposition of waves. constructively called constructive interference.
 Then according to superposition principle, when to two or more waves in a Therefore, in this case, maximum sound intensity is detected by the receiver.
medium move simultaneously, when they overlap, the total displacement is  If the path difference is some half-odd-integer (or half-integral) multiple of
the vector sum of the individual displacements. wavelength λ, mathematically,
 If ⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝒚𝟏 , ⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗𝟑 ,….are the displacements of individual waves, then the resultant
𝒚𝟐 , 𝒚 𝝀
displacement is, ∆𝒓 = 𝒏 [𝑛 = 0, 1, 3, 5, … … . . ]
𝒏 𝟐
Then the two waves arriving from the paths r1 and r2 and reaching the receiver
⃗𝒚 = ⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝒚𝟏 + ⃗⃗⃗⃗ ⃗⃗⃗⃗𝒏 = ∑ 𝒚
𝒚𝟐 + … … . . + 𝒚 ⃗𝒊
at any instant are out of phase (phase difference of π or 180°). They interfere
𝒊=𝟏
destructively called destructive interference.
 The principle of superposition explains,
32. Give the relation between phase difference and path difference.
1) Interference (Space intefernce_
 For wavelength (path) “𝝀” the equivalent phase is “𝟐 𝝅”. Then for unit path. the
2) Beats (Time interference)
equivalent phase is 2𝜋/𝜆
3) Stationary waves 𝟐𝝅
29. Define linear waves and non-linear waves.  Hence, 𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 = × 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐡 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞
𝝀
 Waves whose amplitude is much smaller than their wavelength which obey the 𝟐𝝅
principle of superposition are called linear waves. 𝚫𝝋 = 𝚫𝒓
𝝀
 If the amplitude of the wave is not small then they are called non-linear waves. 33. What are called beats?
These violate the linear superposition principle. (e.g.) Laser  When two or more waves superimpose each other with slightly different
30. Define interference. frequencies, then a sound of periodically varying amplitude (waxing and waning)
 Interference is a phenomenon in which two waves superimpose in same at a point is observed. This phenomenon is known as beats.
direction to form a resultant wave of greater, lower or the same amplitude  The number amplitude maxima per second is called beat frequency (n) and it is
equal to difference of frequencies of superimposing waves. (i.e.) 𝒏= 𝒇𝟏− 𝒇𝟐

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34. What are called stationary waves? 38. Define intensity of sound.
 When two waves of same amplitude, same frequency and same velocity  The average sound energy emitted or transmitted per second is called sound
superimpose in opposite direction, a pattern of wave is formed which are known power.
as standing waves or stationary waves.  The intensity of sound is defined as the sound power transmitted per unit area
35. Write down the characteristics of stationary waves taken normal to the propagation of the sound wave.
Characteristics of stationary waves :  Its S.I unit is 𝑾 𝒎−𝟐
 It is characterized by the confinement of wave disturbance between two rigid 39. Define inverse square law of sound intensity.
boundaries. (i.e.) this wave does not move forward or backward in a medium and  For a particular source, the sound intensity is inversely proportional to the
remain steady at its place. Hence they are called standing waves or stationary square of the distance from the source. This is known as inverse square law of
waves. sound intensity.
 In certain points the amplitude is maximum called as anti-nodes and certain 40. Define loudness of sound.
points the amplitude is minimum or zero called as nodes  The loudness of sound is defined as the degree of sensation of sound produced in
𝝀 the ear or the perception of sound by the listener.
 The distance between two consecutive nodes (or) anti-nodes is
𝟐 41. Explain the relation between intensity and loudness .
𝝀
 The distance between a node and its neighbouring anti-node Is Relation between intensity and loudness - Weber Fechner’s law
𝟒
 According to Weber-Fechner’s law,” loudness (L) is proportional to the logarithm
 The transfer of energy along the standing wave is zero.
of the actual intensity (I) measured with an accurate non - human instrument.
36. Briefly explain the difference between travelling waves and standing waves.
𝐿 ∝ ln I (𝑜𝑟) 𝐿 = 𝑘 ln I
Travelling waves (Progressive waves) Standing waves (Stationary waves)
 where k is a constant, which depends on the unit of measurement
These waves are move forward or These waves neither move forward nor
 The difference between two loudnesses, L1 and L0 measures the relative loudness
backward in a medium (i.e.) they will move backward in a medium (i.e.) they
advance in a medium with a definite will not advance in a medium between two precisely measured intensities and is called as sound intensity
velocity. level. The sound intensity level is given by
All particles in the medium vibrate such Except at nodes, all particles vibrate 𝐼1
∆𝐿 = 𝐿1 − 𝐿𝑜 = 𝑘 ln I1 − 𝑘 ln Io = 𝑘 ln [ ]
that the amplitude of vibration for all with different amplitudes. The 𝐼𝑜
particles is same amplitude of vibration is zero at nodes  If k = 1 bel (or) k = 10 deci bel, then sound intensity level is measured in bel, in
and maximum at anti nodes. honour of Alexander Graham Bell.
These energy carry momentum and These waves do not transport energy 𝑰𝟏 𝑰𝟏
energy while propagation ∆𝑳 = 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟏𝟎 [ ] 𝒃𝒆𝒍 = 𝟏𝟎 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟏𝟎 [ ] 𝒅𝑩
𝑰𝒐 𝑰𝒐
37. State the laws of transverse vibrations in a stretched string. 42. Define harmonics and overtones.
Laws of transverse vibrations :  The lowest natural frequency is called the fundamental frequency.
1) Law of length :  If natural frequencies are written as integral multiple of fundamental
 For a given wire with fixed tension “T” and fixed mass per unit length “𝜇”, the frequencies, then the frequencies are called harmonics.
frequency varies inversely with the vibrating length. (i.e.)  The frequencies higher than fundamental frequencies are called overtones.
1 𝐶
𝑓 ∝ (𝑜𝑟) 𝑓= [𝐶 → 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡] 43. What is called end correction?
𝑙 𝑙  Since the antinodes are not exactly formed at the open end of organ pipe, we
2) Law of tension : have to include a correction, called end correction e, by assuming that the
 For a fixed vibrating length “𝒍”, and fixed mass per unit length “𝜇”, the antinode is formed at some small distance above the open end.
frequency varies directly with the square root of the tension (i.e.) 44. Define Doppler effect.
𝑓 ∝ √𝑇 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑓 = 𝐴 √𝑇 [𝐴 → 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡]  Whenever there is a relative motion between the source of sound and the
3) Law of mass : listener, the frequency of the sound observed by the listener is different from the
 For a fixed vibrating length “𝒍” and fixed tension “T”, the frequency varies frequency produced by the source. This is known as Doppler effect.
inversely with the square root of the mass per unit length (i.e.)
1 𝐵
𝑓 ∝ (𝑜𝑟) 𝑓= [𝐵 → 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡]
√ 𝜇 √𝜇
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45. Why it is that transverse waves cannot be produced in a gas? Can the transverse
waves can be produced in solids and liquids? PART – IV 5 MARK LONG ANSWER QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
 Transverse waves are produced only in rigid medium like solid medium. 1. Derive the expression for the velocity of a travelling wave produced in a string
 Liquid and gases medium are non - rigid medium, and hence transverse waves are Velocity of transverse waves in string :
not produce in that medium.  When a jerk is given at one end of the string
 Since Liquid surfaces behaves like a stretched membrane like rigid medium, or rope, the wave pulse moves towards the
transverse waves can produce on the surface of liquid. other end with a velocity “𝑣”
46. Why is the roar of our national animal different from the sound of a mosquito?  Consider an elemental segment in the string.
 Roaring of our national animal (Lion) produces a sound of low frequency and high  Let “A” and “B” be two points on the strings
intensity (or) loudness whereas mosquito produces sound of high frequency and at an instant of time and let, 𝐴𝐵= 𝑑𝑙
low intensity or loudness. So that their sounds different.  Let “𝜇 ” be the mass per unit length (i.e.)
47. A sound source and listener are both stationary and a strong wind is blowing. Is linear mass density, then mass of this
there a Doppler Effect? segment, 𝑑𝑚 = 𝜇 𝑑𝑙 − − − (1)
 Yes. There is a Doppler Effect.  Consider this segment as an arc of radius “R”
 Because, Doppler effect happens not only due to relative motion of source and with centre “O”, then
observer, but also due to relative motion of the medium. 𝐴𝐵 𝑑𝑙
2𝜃 = = − − − − (2)
48. In an empty room why is it that a tone sounds louder than in the room having 𝐴𝑂 𝑅
things like furniture etc?  The centripetal acceleration supplied by the tension in the string is,
 In the empty room, sound energy is less absorbed and well reflected by the wall 𝑣2
𝑎𝑐𝑝 = − − − − − (3)
whereas in the furnished room, sound energy is more absorbed by the things. 𝑅
 Therefore tone sound is louder in the empty room than in the furnished room.  Then the centripetal force is
49. How do animals sense impending danger of hurricane? (𝑑𝑚) 𝑣 2 (𝜇 𝑑𝑙) 𝑣 2
𝐹𝑐𝑝 = (𝑑𝑚) 𝑎𝑐𝑝 = = − − − − (4)
 Animal’s ears are very sensitive to low frequencies. So they easily sense low 𝑅 𝑅
frequencies produced by hurricane and prevent themselves.  The tension “T” acts along the tangent of the elemental segment of the sting at A
50. Is it possible to realize whether a vessel kept under the tap is about to fill with and B. It can be resolved in two components.
water? (1) Horizontal components - 𝑇cos𝜃 & 𝑇cos𝜃
 Yes. Here the vessel acts as a closed organ pipe. (2) Vertical components - 𝑇 s𝑖𝑛𝜃 & 𝑇s𝑖𝑛𝜃
 When the vessel is about to fill with water, decrease of vibrating air column  The horizontal components are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction,
changes the frequency of sound. Thus we can realize the sound of fill. therefore cancel each other.
 The vertical components are in same direction and hence they add up. So the net
radial force,
𝐹𝑅 = 𝑇 s𝑖𝑛 𝜃 + 𝑇 s𝑖𝑛 𝜃 = 2 𝑇 sin 𝜃
 If 𝜃 𝑖𝑠 𝑠𝑚𝑎𝑙𝑙, sin𝜃 ≈ 𝜃
𝑑𝑙
∴ 𝐹𝑅 = 𝑇 2 𝜃 = 𝑇 − − − − − − − − − − (5)
𝑅
 Under equilibrium, the radial component of the force is equal to the centripetal
force. Hence
𝑑𝑙 (𝜇 𝑑𝑙) 𝑣 2
𝑇 =
𝑅 𝑅
𝑇 = 𝜇 𝑣2
𝑇
𝑣2 =
𝜇
𝑻
𝒗= √ − − − − − − − − − − (𝟔)
𝝁
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2. Derive the expression for velocity of longitudinal waves in an elastic medium 3. Describe Newton’s formula for velocity of sound waves in air and also discuss
Velocity of longitudinal waves : Laplace correction.
 Consider an elastic medium (air) Newton’s formula :
having a fixed mass contained in a  Sir Isaac Newton assumed that, when sound propagates in air, the formation of
cylinder whose cross sectional area is compressions and rarefactions takes place in a very slow manner so that the
“A” and maintained under a pressure process is isothermal in nature.
“P”  For isothermal process, the gas obeys Boyle’s law (i.e.) 𝑷 𝑽=𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕
 By displacing the fluid using piston,  Differentiate, 𝑃 𝑑𝑉 + 𝑉 𝑑𝑃 = 0
the longitudinal waves can be 𝑃 𝑑𝑉 = − 𝑉 𝑑𝑃
generated. 𝑉 𝑑𝑃 𝑑𝑃
𝑃=− =− = 𝐵𝑇 − − − (1)
 Let “𝜌” be the density of the fluid which is initially at rest. 𝑑𝑉 𝑑𝑉
( )
 Let “𝑢” be the velocity of the piston and “𝑣” be the velocity of the elastic wave. 𝑉
 In time interval "∆𝑡" the distance moved by the piston = ∆𝑑 = 𝑢 𝑡  where, 𝐵𝑇→ Isothermal bulk modulus of air
The distance moved by the elastic disturbance = Δ𝑥 =𝑣 ∆𝑡  The speed of sound in air,
 The mass of the air moved in time “Δ𝑡” 𝑩𝑻 𝑷
∆𝑚 = 𝜌 𝑉 = 𝜌 𝐴 ∆𝑥 = 𝜌 𝐴 𝑣 ∆𝑡 𝒗𝑻 = √ = √ − − − − − − − − − (𝟐)
𝝆 𝝆
 Then the momentum imparted due to motion of piston with velocity “u” is
 ∆𝑝 = ∆𝑚 𝑢 = 𝜌 𝐴 𝑣 ∆𝑡 𝑢  At NTP, , 𝑃 = 1 𝑎𝑡𝑚 = 1.013 𝑋 105 𝑁 𝑚−2
 But the change in momentum (i.e.) impulse is 𝜌 = 1.293 𝑘𝑔 𝑚−3
𝐼 = ∆𝑝 𝑃 1.013 𝑋 105
[∆𝑃 𝐴] ∆𝑡 = 𝜌 𝐴 𝑣 ∆𝑡 𝑢 𝑣𝑇 = √ = √ ≈ 𝟐𝟖𝟎 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏
𝜌 1.293
∆𝑃 = 𝜌 𝑣 𝑢 − − − − − − − − − − (1)
 But when sound wave travels through air, there occur pressure - volume change .  But the speed of sound in air at 0°C is experimentally observed as 𝟑𝟑𝟐 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏
Let “B” be the bulk modulus of the medium, then  It is about 16% more than the theoretical value.
∆𝑃 𝑉 ∆𝑃 [𝐴 ∆𝑥] ∆𝑃 𝑣 𝑡 ∆𝑃 𝑣 ∆𝑃 Laplace correction :
𝐵= = = = =
∆𝑉 ∆𝑉 [𝐴 ∆𝑑] 𝑢 𝑡 𝑢  Laplace corrected this discrepancy by assuming when sound propagates in air,
𝑉 the formation of compressions and rarefactions takes place rapid manner so that
𝑢
∴ ∆𝑃 = 𝐵 − − − − − − − − − − (2) the process is adiabatic in nature.
𝑣  For adiabatic process, the gas obeys Poisson’s law (i.e.) 𝑷 𝑽𝜸 = 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕
𝑢
𝜌𝑣𝑢 = 𝐵 [ 𝐵𝑦 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 (1)]  Differentiate, 𝑉 𝛾 𝑑𝑃 + 𝑃 𝛾 𝑉 𝛾−1 𝑑𝑉 = 0
𝑣 𝛾−1
𝐵  Divide by 𝑉 on both sides
∴ 𝑣2 = 𝑉𝛾
𝜌 𝑑𝑃 + 𝑃 𝛾 𝑑𝑉 = 0
𝑉 𝛾−1
𝐵 𝛾 −𝛾+1
𝑉 𝑉 𝑑𝑃 + 𝑃 𝛾 𝑑𝑉 = 0
𝑣 =√ − − − − − − − − − (𝟑) 𝑉 𝑑𝑃 + 𝑃 𝛾 𝑑𝑉 = 0
𝜌
𝑃 𝛾 𝑑𝑉 = −𝑉 𝑑𝑃
 In general, if “E” be the modulus of elasticity of the medium, then the velocity of 𝑉 𝑑𝑃 𝑑𝑃
longitudinal waves is 𝑃𝛾 =− =− = 𝐵𝐴 − − − − − (1)
𝑑𝑉 𝑑𝑉
( )
𝑬 𝑉
𝒗 =√ − − − − − − − − − (𝟒)  where, 𝐵𝐴→ Adiabatic bulk modulus of air
𝝆
 The speed of sound in air is,
𝑩𝑨 𝑷𝛾
𝒗𝑨 = √ = √ = 𝒗𝑻 √ 𝛾 − − − − (2)
𝝆 𝝆

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𝐶𝑃
 Here, 𝛾 = Destructive interference :
𝐶𝑉
 When crest of one wave meets trough of another wave, their amplitude will
 For air, 𝛾=1.47 .Hence speed of sound in air is,
cancel each other and resultant amplitude and intensity becomes minimum (even
𝑣𝐴 = 280 √1.47 = 𝟑𝟑𝟏. 𝟑 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏 zero)
 This value is very much closer to the experimental value.  Thus for destructive interference, 𝜑 = 𝜋, 3𝜋, 5𝜋, … = (2𝑛 − 1) 𝜋
4. Explain the theory of interference of waves formed.  It means that, cos𝜑= −1 , then resultant intensity
Interference : 𝟐
 It is the phenomenon in which two waves superimpose to form a resultant wave Im𝑖𝑛 = 𝐈𝟏 + 𝐈𝟐 − 𝟐 √𝐈𝟏 𝐈𝟐 = [√𝐈𝟏 − √𝐈𝟐 ]
of greater, lower or the same amplitude. (𝑜𝑟) Imin = [𝐀𝟏 − 𝐴2 ]𝟐
Theory :  And the resultant amplitude, 𝑨 = 𝐀𝟏 − 𝑨𝟐
 Consider two harmonic waves 5. What are stationary waves? Explain the formation of stationary waves
𝑦1 = 𝐴1 sin (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) − − − − − − − (1) Stationary waves :
𝑦2 = 𝐴2 sin (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡 + 𝜑) − − − − − − − (2)  Two waves of same amplitude, same velocity and same frequency superimpose
Where 𝐴1 and 𝐴2 → amplitude of the waves in opposite direction, the resulting pattern is called standing waves or
 From superposition principle, stationary waves.
𝑦 = 𝑦1 + 𝑦2 Theory :
𝑦 = 𝐴1 sin (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) + 𝐴2 sin (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡 + 𝜑)  Consider two harmonic progressive waves having displacement equations,
 We have, sin(𝛼 + 𝛽) = sin 𝛼 cos 𝛽 + cos 𝛼 sin 𝛽 𝑦1 = 𝐴 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡)
𝑦 = 𝐴1 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) + 𝐴2 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) cos 𝜑 + 𝐴2 cos(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) sin 𝜑 𝑦2 = 𝐴 sin(𝑘𝑥 + 𝜔𝑡)
𝑦 = sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) [𝐴1 + 𝐴2 cos 𝜑] + 𝐴2 sin 𝜑 cos(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) − − − (3)  From superposition principle, the resultant displacement,
 Here , 𝐴 sin 𝜃 = 𝐴2 sin 𝜑 − − − − − − − − − − − − − − (4) 𝑦 = 𝑦1 + 𝑦2 = 𝐴 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) + 𝐴 sin(𝑘𝑥 + 𝜔𝑡)
𝐴 cos 𝜃 = 𝐴1 + 𝐴2 cos 𝜑 − − − − − − − − − − − − − − (5)  By solving , we get
𝒚 (𝒙, 𝒕) = 𝟐 𝑨 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝝎𝒕 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝒌𝒙 = 𝑨 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝝎𝒕 − − − − (𝟏)
 Then equation (3) becomes,,
 where, 𝑨 = 2 𝐴 sin𝑘𝑥  Amplitude of vibrating segment
𝑦 = 𝐴 sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) cos 𝜃 + 𝐴 sin 𝜃 cos(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡)
𝑦 = 𝐴 [sin(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) cos 𝜃 + sin 𝜃 cos(𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡)]  This represents a stationary wave or standing wave, which means that this wave
𝒚 = 𝑨 𝐬𝐢𝐧(𝒌𝒙 − 𝝎𝒕 + 𝜽) − − − − − − − − − − − − (6) does not move either forward or backward.
𝜋 3𝜋 5𝜋
 Squaring equation (4) and (5) and then add, we get  If sin𝑘𝑥=1 (or) 𝑘𝑥 = , , , … then amplitude in this position is maximum
2 2 2
𝐴2 (sin2 𝜃 + cos 2 𝜃) = 𝐴22 sin2 𝜑 + (𝐴1 + 𝐴2 cos 𝜑)2 and it is known as antinode.
𝐴2 = 𝐴22 sin2 𝜑 + 𝐴12 + 𝐴22 cos 2 𝜑 + 2 𝐴1 𝐴2 cos 𝜑 The mth anti nodal position is 𝒙𝒎 = [
𝟐𝒎+𝟏 𝝀
]𝟐
𝐴2 = 𝐴12 + 𝐴22 (sin2 𝜑 + cos 2 𝜑) + 2 𝐴1 𝐴2 cos 𝜑 𝟐
𝑨𝟐 = 𝑨𝟏𝟐 + 𝑨𝟐𝟐 + 𝟐 𝑨𝟏 𝑨𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝝋 − − − − − − − (7)  If sin𝑘𝑥=0 (or) 𝑘𝑥 = 0, 𝜋, 2𝜋, 3𝜋, … then amplitude in this position is zero and
 Since intensity is the square of the amplitude, [𝐼 = 𝑨𝟐 ] we have resultant it is known as node.
𝝀
intensity The nth nodal position is 𝒙𝒏 = 𝒏
𝟐
I = 𝐈𝟏 + 𝐈𝟐 + 𝟐 √𝐈𝟏 𝐈𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝛗 − − − − − − − (8) 𝝀
 The distance between two successive anti-nodes or nodes can be computed by
Constructive interference : 𝟐
 When crest of one wave meets crest of another wave (or) trough meets troughs, 6. What is Sonometer? Give its construction and working. Explain how to
their amplitude will added up and the resultant amplitude and intensity becomes determine the frequency of tuning fork using sonometer.
maximum. Sonometer :
 Thus for constructive interference, 𝜑 = 0, 2𝜋, 4𝜋, 6𝜋, … = 2𝑛𝜋  Sono means sound related and sonometer implies sound related measurements.
 It means that, cos 𝜑 = +1 . Then resultant intensity  Using sonometer, we can determine
𝟐 (1) the frequency of the tuning fork or frequency of alternating current
Imax = 𝐈𝟏 + 𝐈𝟐 + 𝟐 √𝐈𝟏 𝐈𝟐 = [√𝐈𝟏 + √𝐈𝟐 ] (2) the tension in the string
(𝑜𝑟) Imax = [𝐀𝟏 + 𝐴2 ]𝟐 (3) the unknown hanging mass
 And the resultant amplitude is, 𝑨 = 𝐀𝟏 + 𝑨𝟐

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Construction :
 It is made up of a hollow box and a thin
string is attached to it.
 One end of the string is connected to the
hook and the other end is to a weight hanger
𝜆𝑛
through a pulley.  We know that, the distance between two successive nodes is
2
 Weights are added to the hanger to increase  If there are “n” number of nodes formed between two boundaries, then
the tension on the wire. 𝜆𝑛 2𝐿
 Two adjustable knife edges are put over the board and using this the vibrating 𝐿=𝑛 [ ] (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆𝑛 =
2 𝑛
length of the string can be varied.  Therefore not all wavelengths are allowed.
Working :
 For n = 1 (first mode) ; 𝜆1 = 2 𝐿
 A transverse stationary wave is produced so that nodes are formed at the knife
edges and anti - nodes are formed in between them. 𝑣 𝑣 1 𝑇
∴ 𝑓1 = = = √
 Length of vibrating string =𝑙 𝜆1 2𝐿 2𝐿 𝜇
Diameter of the string =𝑑 2𝐿
 For n=2 (second mode) ; 𝜆2 =
Tension on the string = 𝑇 = 𝑀𝑔 2
𝑚 𝑣 𝑣
Mass per unit length of the sting (i.e.)linear mass density = 𝜇 = ∴ 𝑓2 = = 2 [ ] = 2 𝑓1
𝐿 𝜆2 2𝐿
𝑚 𝑚 𝑚
 Let “𝜌” be the density of the material, then = 𝜌 = = = 𝜋𝑑2  For n=3 (third mode) ; 𝜆3 =
2𝐿
𝑉 𝐿𝐴 𝐿( ) 3
4 𝑣 𝑣
𝜆 ∴ 𝑓3 = = 3 [ ] = 3 𝑓1
 The distance between to consecutive nodes is , then 𝜆3 2𝐿
2
𝜆  In general, for nth mode, the frequency is, 𝑓𝑛 = 𝑛 𝑓1
𝑙= (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆 = 2 𝑙
2  The lowest natural frequency (n = 1) is called fundamental frequency.
 Then the frequency of vibrating element is  The second natural frequency (n=2) is called first over tone.
𝑣 1 𝑇  The third natural frequency (n=3) is called second over tone.
𝑓= = √ − − − − − − − − (1)  Therefore, the nth natural frequency 𝒇𝒏=𝒏 𝒇𝟏
𝜆 2𝑙 𝜇
 If natural frequencies are written as integral multiple of fundamental
𝑚 𝜋𝑑 2
 Here, 𝜇 = = 𝜌 ( ), then frequencies, then the frequencies are called harmonics.
𝐿 4
 Thus,
1 𝑇 first harmonic = 𝒇𝟏 = fundamental frequency
𝑓= = 𝒇𝟐=𝟐 𝒇𝟏
2𝑙√ 𝜋𝑑 2 second harmonic = first over tone
𝜌( ) = 𝒇𝟑=𝟑 𝒇𝟏
4 third harmonic = second over tone
8. Explain how overtones are produced in a closed organ pipe.
𝟏 𝑻 Closed organ pipe :
𝒇= √ − − − − − − − − − (2)
𝒍𝒅 𝝆𝝅  It is a pipe with one end closed
and the other end open. (e.g.)
7. Explain the concept of fundamental frequency, harmonics and overtones in
Clarinet
detail.
Fundamental frequency, harmonics and overtones :  Thus the incoming wave from
open end and reflected wave at
 Let standing waves with a specific wavelength are produced in the string of
closed end are superpose results
length “L”
stationary waves.
 Since, the amplitude must vanish at the boundaries, therefore, the displacement
at the boundary must satisfy the following conditions  Here node is formed at closed
𝑦 (𝑥 = 0, 𝑡) = 0 end and anti-node is formed at
& 𝑦 (𝑥 = 𝐿, 𝑡) = 0 open end.

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 At fundamental mode, 
In general, for of vibration ; : 𝒇𝒏 = 𝒏 𝒇𝟏
nth mode
𝜆1 
Thus the frequencies of harmonics are in the ratio
𝐿= (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆1 = 4 𝐿
4 𝑓1 ∶ 𝑓2 ∶ 𝑓3 ∶ 𝑓4 ∶ … . = 1 ∶ 2 ∶ 3 ∶ 4 ∶ … …
𝑣 𝑣
∴ 𝑓1 = = − − − − (1)  Thus the open organ pipe has all the harmonics.
𝜆1 4𝐿 10. How will you determine the velocity of sound using resonance air column
It is the fundamental frequency (i.e) first harmonic apparatus?
 During second mode, Resonance air column apparatus :
3 𝜆2 4𝐿
𝐿= (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆1 =
4 3
𝑣 𝑣
∴ 𝑓2 = = 3 [ ] = 3 𝑓1 − − (2)
𝜆2 4𝐿
It is first overtone or third harmonic
 During third mode,
5 𝜆3 4𝐿
𝐿= (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆1 =
4 5
𝑣 𝑣
∴ 𝑓3 = = 5 [ ] = 5 𝑓1 − − (3)
𝜆3 4𝐿
It is second overtone or fifth harmonic
 In general, for nth mode of vibration : 𝒇𝒏 = (𝟐𝒏 + 𝟏) 𝒇𝟏  The resonance air column apparatus is one of the simplest techniques to measure
 Thus the frequencies of harmonics are in the ratio the speed of sound in air at room temperature.
𝑓1 ∶ 𝑓2 ∶ 𝑓3 ∶ 𝑓4 ∶ … . = 1 ∶ 3 ∶ 5 ∶ 7 ∶ … …  It consists of a cylindrical glass tube of one meter length whose one end A is open
 Thus the closed organ pipe has only odd harmonics and another end B is connected to the water reservoir R through a rubber tube
9. Explain how overtones are produced in a closed organ pipe.  This cylindrical glass tube is mounted on a vertical stand with a scale attached to
Open organ pipe : it. The tube is partially filled with water and the water level can be adjusted by
 It is a pipe with both ends open (e.g.) Flute raising or lowering the water in the reservoir R. The surface of the water will act
 The incoming wave from both open ends superpose results stationary waves; as a closed end and other as the open end. Therefore, it behaves like a closed
 Here anti-nodes are formed at open ends and nodes are between them. organ pipe, forming nodes at the surface of water and antinodes at the closed end.
 At fundamental mode of vibration, Working :
𝜆1  When a vibrating tuning fork is brought near the open end of the tube,
𝐿= (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆1 = 24 𝐿
2 longitudinal waves are formed inside the air column.
𝑣 𝑣  These waves move downward and reach the surfaces of water and get reflected
∴ 𝑓1 = = − − − − (1)
𝜆1 2𝐿 and produce standing waves.
 It is fundamental frequency or first  The length of the air column is varied by changing the water level until a loud
harmonic sound is produced in the air column.
 During second mode,  At this particular length the frequency of waves in the air column resonates with
2 𝜆2 2𝐿 the frequency of the tuning fork (natural frequency of the tuning fork). At
𝐿= (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆1 =
2 2 resonance, the frequency of sound waves produced is equal to the frequency of
𝑣 𝑣
∴ 𝑓2 = = 2 [ ] = 2 𝑓1 − − (2) the tuning fork.
𝜆2 2𝐿  Let the first resonance occur at length L1 and end correction be ‘e’, then
It is first overtone or second harmonic 𝜆
 During third mode, = 𝐿1 + 𝑒 − − − − − − − − (1)
4
3 𝜆3 2𝐿
𝐿= (𝑜𝑟) 𝜆1 =  Let the second resonance occur at length L2, then
2 3 3𝜆
𝑣 𝑣 = 𝐿2 + 𝑒 − − − − − − − − (2)
∴ 𝑓3 = = 3 [ ] = 3 𝑓1 − − (3) 4
𝜆3 2𝐿
It is second overtone or third harmonic
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3𝜆 𝜆  Hence the apparent frequency is,
(2) − (1) ⟹ − = 𝐿2 + 𝑒 − 𝐿1 − 𝑒 𝑣 𝑣 𝑣
4 4 𝑓 = = 𝑣 𝑣 =
3𝜆− 𝜆 𝜆 − 𝑆 𝑣 − 𝑣𝑆
= 𝐿2 − 𝐿1 𝑓 𝑓 ( )
4 𝑓
𝜆 𝒗
= 𝐿2 − 𝐿1 = Δ𝐿 𝒇 = [ ]𝒇 − − − − − (𝟏)
2 𝒗 − 𝒗𝑺
∴ 𝜆 = 2 ∆𝐿 − − − − − − (3 )  Since 𝒗𝑺 < 𝑣 then 𝒇 > 𝑓
 The speed of the sound in air at room temperature can be computed by using the  Thus, whenever the source moves toward the stationary listener, the
formula observed frequency is greater than the source frequency.
𝒗 = 𝒇 𝝀 = 𝟐 𝒇 ∆𝑳 − − − − − − (𝟒) (b) Source moves away from the observer:
 To compute the end correction,  If the source is moving away from the stationary listener, 𝒗𝑺 becomes
𝜆 negative and hence
[3 ]
(2) ÷ (1) ⟹ 4 = 𝐿2 + 𝑒 𝒗 𝒗
𝜆 𝐿1 + 𝑒 𝒇 = [ ]𝒇 = [ ] 𝒇 − − − − − (𝟐)
[ ] 𝒗 − (−𝒗𝑺 ) 𝒗 + 𝒗𝑺
4  Since 𝒗𝑺 < 𝑣 then 𝒇 < 𝑓
𝐿2 + 𝑒
(𝑜𝑟) 3 =  Thus, whenever the source is moving away from the stationary listener the
𝐿1 + 𝑒
observed frequency is less than the source frequency
3 𝐿1 + 3 𝑒 = 𝐿2 + 𝑒
(2) Observer in motion and Source at rest.
3 𝑒 − 𝑒 = 𝐿2 − 3 𝐿1 (a) Observer moves towards Source :
2 𝑒 = 𝐿2 − 3 𝐿1 Frequency of sound waves emitted by the sound source = 𝑓
𝑳𝟐 − 𝟑 𝑳𝟏 Speeed of the Listener = 𝑣𝐿
∴ 𝒆= − − − − − − (𝟓)
𝟐 Speed of sound waves in the medium = 𝑣
11. What is meant by Doppler effect?. Discuss the following cases Wavelength of sound waves =𝜆
(1) Source in motion and Observer at rest  Here the relative speed of sound with respect to the listener = 𝑣𝑟 = 𝑣 + 𝑣𝐿
(a) Source moves towards observer  Since the wavelength remains unchanged (because the source is stationary),
(b) Source moves away from the observer the observed frequency is given by
(2) Observer in motion and Source at rest. 𝒗𝒓 𝒗 + 𝒗𝑳 𝒗 + 𝒗𝑳
𝒇 = = =[ ]𝒇 − − − − − (𝟑)
(a) Observer moves towards Source 𝝀 𝒗 𝒗
[ ]
(b) Observer resides away from the Source 𝒇
(3) Both are in motion  Since 𝒗𝑳 < 𝑣 then 𝒇 > 𝒇
(a) Source and Observer approach each other  Thus, whenever the Listener moves toward the stationary source, the
(b) Source and Observer resides from each other observed frequency is greater than the source frequency.
(c) Source chases Observer (b) Observer resides away from the Source :
(d) Observer chases Source  If the Listener moving away from the stationary source, 𝒗𝑳 becomes
(1) Source in motion and Observer at rest: negative and hence
(a) Source moves towards observer 𝒗 + (−𝒗𝑳 ) 𝒗 − 𝒗𝑳
 Frequency of sound waves emitted by the sound source = 𝑓 𝒇 = [ ] 𝒇=[ ]𝒇 − − − − − (𝟒)
𝒗 𝒗
Speeed of the sound source = 𝑣𝑆  Since 𝒗𝑳 < 𝑣 then 𝒇 < 𝒇
Speed of sound waves in the medium = 𝑣
 Thus, whenever the Listener moving away from the stationary source the
Wavelength of sound waves =𝜆
observed frequency is less than the source frequency
 If the source moves a distance 𝑣𝑆 𝑇 then apparent wavelength observed by
the listener at rest is
𝑣 1
𝜆 = 𝜆 − 𝑣𝑆 𝑇 = − 𝑣𝑆 ( )
𝑓 𝑓

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11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
(3) Both are in motion :
(a) Source and Observer approach each other
EXAMPLE PROBLEMS WITH SOLUTIONS
 Speeed of the sound source = 𝑣𝑆 1. Which of the following has longer wavelength?
Speeed of the Listener = 𝑣𝐿
Speed of sound waves in the medium = 𝑣
Wavelength of sound waves =𝜆
 Here 𝑣𝑆 is positive and 𝑣𝐿 is negative and hence the observed apparent
frequency is given by
𝒗 + 𝒗𝑳 Solution :-
𝒇 = [ ]𝒇 − − − − − (5)
𝒗 − 𝒗𝑺  In a wave, the positive displacement is called crest and negative displacement is
 Since(𝒗 + 𝒗𝑳 ) > (𝒗 − 𝒗𝑺 ) we have, 𝒇 > 𝑓 called trough.
 Thus whenever the source and the listener approach each other, then the  The distance between the crest and the adjacent trough is called the
observed frequency is greater than the source frequency. wavelength.
(b) Source and Observer resides from each other  Thus figure (c) has longer wavelength.
 Here 𝑣𝐿 is positive and 𝑣𝑆 is negative and hence the observed apparent 2. Three waves are shown in the figure below. Write down
frequency is given by
𝒗 − 𝒗𝑳
𝒇 = [ ]𝒇 − − − − − (6)
𝒗 + 𝒗𝑺
 Since(𝒗 − 𝒗𝑳 ) < (𝒗 + 𝒗𝑺 ) we have, 𝒇 < 𝑓
 Thus whenever the source and the listener resides from each other, then
the observed frequency is less than the source frequency.
(c) Source chases Observer (a) the frequency in ascending order
 Here both 𝑣𝑆 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣𝐿 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒 positive values and hence the observed apparent (b) the wavelength in ascending order
frequency is given by Solution :-
𝒗 − 𝒗𝑳  A wave must have a crest and a trough.
𝒇 = [ ]𝒇 − − − − − (7)
𝒗 − 𝒗𝑺  The distance between crest and adjacent trough is called its wavelength ()
(d) Observer chases Source  Number of such waves pro duced in one second is called frequency (f)
 Here both 𝑣𝑆 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣𝐿 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒 negative values and hence the observed apparent  Let 𝑓𝑎 , 𝑓𝑏 , 𝑓𝑐 are the frequencies of the given waves (a) , (b) and (c)
frequency is given by  Their respective wavelengths will be 𝑎 , 𝑏 , 𝑐 . Then
𝒗 + 𝒗𝑳 (𝒂) 𝒇𝒄 < 𝒇𝒃 < 𝒇𝒂
𝒇 = [ ]𝒇 − − − − − (8)
𝒗 + 𝒗𝑺 (𝒃) 𝒃 < 𝒂 < 𝒄
3. The average range of frequencies at which human beings can hear sound
waves varies from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Calculate the wavelength of the sound
wave in these limits. (Assume the speed of sound to be 340 m s–1.
Solution :-
 Let the ‘f’ be the frequency, ‘’be the wavelength and ‘𝑣 ‘be the velocity, then
𝑣 340
 = = = 17 𝑚
𝑓 20
𝑣 340 17
&  = = = = 0.017 𝑚
𝑓 20000 1000
 Hence wavelength of sound in the given frequency limit (i.e.) audible limit was
𝟏𝟕 𝒎 𝒕𝒐 𝟎. 𝟎𝟏𝟕 𝒎

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11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
4. A man saw a toy duck on a wave in an ocean. 6. Calculate the velocity of the travelling
He noticed that the duck moved up and pulse as shown in the figure below. The
down 15 times per minute. He roughly linear mass density of pulse is 0.25 kg m –1.
measured the wavelength of the ocean wave Further, compute the time taken by the
as 1.2 m. Calculate the time taken by the toy travelling pulse to cover a distance of 30
duck for going one time up and down and cm on the string.
also the velocity of the ocean wave. Solution :-
Solution :-  Tension in the string , 𝑇 = 𝑀 𝑔 = 1.2 𝑋 9.8 = 11.76 𝑁
 If the duck moved up and down 15 times per minute. then the duck moved up  Velocity of the pulse,
and down per second is (i.e.) frequency is .
𝟏𝟓 𝟏 𝑇 11.76 1176
𝒇= = = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟓 𝑯𝒛 𝑣= √ = √ = √ = √47.04
𝟔𝟎 𝟒 𝜇 0.25 25
 Then the time taken to move up and down one time is (i.e.) time period is 𝒗 = 𝟔. 𝟖𝟓𝟖 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏
𝟏 𝟏 𝟏𝟎𝟎
𝑻= = = =𝟒𝒔  Time taken to cover the distance of 30 cm,
𝒇 𝟎. 𝟐𝟓 𝟐𝟓 𝑥 30 𝑋 10−2
 The velocity of the ocean wave 𝑡= = = 4.374 𝑋 10−2 𝑠
𝑣 6.858
𝒗 =  𝒇 = 𝟏. 𝟐 𝑿 𝟎. 𝟐𝟓 = 𝟎. 𝟑 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏 𝒕 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟒𝟒 𝒔 = 𝟒𝟒 𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒊 𝒔𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒅
5. Consider a string whose one end is attached 7. Calculate the speed of sound in a steel rod whose Young’s modulus
to a wall. Then compute the following in both Y = 2 × 1011 N m–2 and ρ = 7800 kg m–3.
situations given in figure (assume waves Solution :-
crosses the distance in one second)  Speed of the sound in the steel rod ,
(a) Wavelength,
(b) Frequency and 𝑌 2 𝑋 1011 1 𝑋 1011
𝑣= √ = √ = √
(c) Velocity 𝜌 7800 3900
Solution :-
𝒗 = 𝟓. 𝟎𝟔𝟐 𝑿 𝟏𝟎𝟑 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏
Number of case- 1 case - 2
8. An increase in pressure of 100 kPa causes a certain volume of water to
waves 2 6 decrease by 0.005% of its original volume. (a) Calculate the bulk modulus of
12 12 water? (b) Compute the speed of sound (compressional waves) in
1) Wavelength  = =6𝑚  = =2𝑚
2 6 water?
2) Frequency 𝑓 = 2 𝐻𝑧 𝑓 = 6 𝐻𝑧 Solution :-
(a) Bulk modulus of water,
𝑣 = 𝑓 =6𝑋2 𝑣 = 𝑓 =2𝑋6 ∆𝑃 100 𝑋 103 100 𝑋 103
3) Velocity
𝑣 = 12 𝑚 𝑠 −1 𝑣 = 12 𝑚 𝑠 −1 𝐵= = = = 20 𝑋 108 𝑃𝑎
∆𝑉 0.005 5 𝑋 10 −5
Result : | | [ ]
𝑉 100
 As wavelength decreases , frequency will be increases 𝟔
𝑩 = 𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝑿 𝟏𝟎 𝑷𝒂 = 𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝑴𝑷𝒂
 Wave velocity will be a constant (b) Speed of sound in water,
𝐵 2000 𝑋 106
𝑣= √ = √ = √2 𝑋 106 = 1.414 𝑋 103
𝜌 1000
𝒗 = 𝟏𝟒𝟏𝟒 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏

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11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
9. The ratio of the densities of oxygen and nitrogen is 16:14. Calculate the 11. Sketch y = x −a for different values of a.
temperature when the speed of sound in nitrogen gas at 17°C is equal to the Solution :-
speed of sound in oxygen gas. 𝒂=𝟎 𝒂=𝟏 𝒂=𝟐 𝒂=𝟑
Solution :- 𝒙 𝒚 𝒙 𝒚 𝒙 𝒚 𝒙 𝒚
 By Newton-Laplace formula, the speed of sound is 0 0 0 -1 0 -2 0 -3
𝛾𝑃 𝛾𝑃 𝛾𝑃𝑉 𝛾𝑅𝑇 1 1 1 0 1 -1 1 -2
𝑣 = √ = √ =√ = √ 2 2 2 1 2 0 2 -1
𝜌 𝑀/𝑉 𝑀 𝑀
3 3 3 2 3 1 3 0
 Speed of sound in nitrogen gas at 17°C 4 4 4 3 4 2 4 1
𝛾 𝑅 (273 + 17) 𝛾 𝑅 (290) 5 5 5 4 5 3 5 2
𝑣𝑁 = √ =√ − − − − (1)  This implies, when increasing the value of a, the line shifts towards right side.
𝑀𝑁 𝑀𝑁
For a = vt, y = x − vt satisfies the differential equation. Though this function
 Speed of sound in oxygen gas at t°C
satisfies the differential equation, it is not finite for all values of x and t. Hence,
𝛾 𝑅 (273 + 𝑡) it does not represent a wave
𝑣𝑂 = √ − − − − (2) 𝝅 𝝅 𝟑𝝅
𝑀𝑂 12. How does the wave y = sin(x − a) for 𝒂 = 𝟎, 𝒂 = , 𝒂 = , 𝒂 = and 𝒂 = 𝝅
𝟒 𝟐 𝟒
 If these two speeds are equal, look like?. Sketch this wave.
𝑣𝑂 = 𝑣𝑁 Solution :-
𝝅 𝝅 𝟑𝝅
𝛾 𝑅 (273 + 𝑡) 𝛾 𝑅 (290) 𝒂=𝟎 𝒂= 𝒂= 𝒂= 𝒂= 𝝅
√ = √ 𝒙 𝟒 𝟐 𝟒
𝑀𝑂 𝑀𝑁 𝒚 𝒚 𝒚 𝒚 𝒚
(273 + 𝑡) (290) 273 + 𝑡 290 0 0 − 0.707 −1 − 0.707 −1
(𝑜𝑟) = (𝑜𝑟) =
𝑀𝑂 𝑀𝑁 𝜌𝑂 𝑉 𝜌𝑁 𝑉 𝝅/𝟒 0.707 0 − 0.707 0 − 0.707
273 + 𝑡 290 𝝅/𝟐 1 0.707 0 −1 −1
(𝑜𝑟) =
𝜌𝑂 𝜌𝑁 𝟑𝝅/𝟒 0.707 1 0.707 0 − 0.707
273 + 𝑡 𝜌𝑂 16 𝝅 0 0.707 1 0.707 0
∴ = =
290 𝜌𝑁 14
273 + 𝑡 8
= = 1.143
290 7
273 + 𝑡 = 1.143 𝑋 290 = 331.47 𝐾
∴ 𝑡 = 331.47 − 273
𝒕 = 𝟓𝟖. 𝟒𝟕 ℃
10. Suppose a man stands at a distance from a cliff and claps his hands. He receives
an echo from the cliff aft er 4 second. Calculate the distance between the man
and the cliff . Assume the speed of sound to be 343 m s–1.
Solution :-
 The time taken by the sound to come back as echo is 2𝑡 = 4 𝑠 Hence t = 2 s
𝑑
 Since the speed is given by 𝑣 = the distance is calculated as
𝑡
𝒅 = 𝒗 𝒕 = 𝟑𝟒𝟑 𝑿 𝟐 = 𝟔𝟖𝟔 𝒎

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13. Check the dimensional of the wave y = sin(x−vt). If it is dimensionally wrong, 2𝜋 2𝜋 
∆𝜑 = ∆𝑟 = = 𝜋
write the above equation in the correct form.   2
Solution :- Therefore, at the point X, the two waves from A and B are out of phase, hence,
 The LHS of given equation will have dimension of length, whereas the RHS will the intensity will be minimum due to destructive interference.
have no dimension. Hence the given equation is dimensionally not correct. 17. Two speakers C and E are placed 5 m apart and are driven by the same source.
 The correct equation is 𝑦 = 𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛 (𝑘𝑥 − 𝜔𝑡) Let a man stand at A which is 10 m away from the mid point O of C and E. The
 The sine functions and cosine functions are periodic functions with period 2π. man walks towards the point O which is at 1 m (parallel to OC) as shown in the
 Hence the correct expression is figure. He receives the first minimum in sound intensity at B. Then calculate
𝟐𝝅 𝟐 the frequency of the source. (Assume speed of sound = 343 m s–1)
𝒚 = 𝑨 𝐬𝐢𝐧 [ 𝒙− 𝒕] Solution :-
 𝑻
 Here 𝑨 → amplitude,  → wavelength , 𝑻 → time period
 In general, 𝒚 (𝒙, 𝒕) = 𝑨 𝒔𝒊𝒏 (𝒌𝒙 − 𝝎𝒕)
14. The wavelength of two sine waves are λ1 = 1m and λ2 = 6m. Calculate the
corresponding wave numbers.
Solution :-
2𝜋 2𝜋
𝒌𝟏 = = = 2 𝑋 3.14 = 𝟔. 𝟐𝟖 𝒓𝒂𝒅 𝒎−𝟏
1 1
2𝜋 2 𝜋 2 𝑋 3.14 3.14  The first minimum occurs when the two waves reaching the point B are 180°
𝜆
𝒌𝟐 = = = = = 𝟏. 𝟎𝟒𝟔 𝒓𝒂𝒅 𝒎−𝟏 (out of phase) and hence the path difference will be
1 6 6 3 2
15. A mobile phone tower transmits a wave signal of frequency 900MHz. Calculate 𝜆
(𝑖. 𝑒. ) ∆𝑟 =
the length of the waves transmitted from the mobile phone tower. 2
Solution :- 𝜆
𝑋2 − 𝑋1 = − − − − − − − − (1)
 Velocity of wave signal transmitted 𝑣 = 𝑐 = 3 𝑋 108 𝑚𝑠 −1 2
𝐶𝐸
𝒗 3 𝑋 108 1  In figure 𝐷𝐵 = 𝐸𝐹 = 10 𝑚; 𝐶𝐸 = 5 𝑚; 𝑂𝐶 = = 2.5 𝑚;
2
∴ 𝑤𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ ;  = = 6
= = 𝟎. 𝟑𝟑𝟑 𝒎
𝒇 900 𝑋 10 3  Hence, 𝐶𝐷 = 𝑂𝐶 − 𝐴𝐵 = 2.5 − 1 = 1.5 𝑚
16. Consider two sources A and B as shown in the figure below. Let the two sources 𝐹𝐵 = 𝐹𝐴 + 𝐴𝐵 = 2.5 + 1 = 3.5 𝑚
emit simple harmonic waves of same frequency but of different amplitudes,  Using phythogorus theorem in Δ𝐶𝐷𝐵
and both are in phase (same phase). Let O be any point equidistant from A and 𝐶𝐵2 = 𝐶𝐷2 + 𝐷𝐵 2
B as shown in the figure. Calculate the intensity at points O, Y and X. (X and Y X12 = 1.52 + 102 = 2.25 + 100
are not equidistant from A & B) = 102.25
Solution :-
X1 = √102.25 = 10.11 m
1) Since the point ‘O’ be at equidistant from both A and B, the path difference
= 10.1 m
between the waves meeting at ‘O’ will be zero (∆𝑟 = 0) and phase difference
 Using phythogorus theorem in Δ𝐸𝐹𝐵
also zero (∆𝜑 = 0). So the waves are in phase with each other and the resultant
𝐸𝐵2 = 𝐸𝐹 2 + 𝐹𝐵2
intensity at ‘O’ will be maximum due to constructive interference.
X22 = 102 + 3.52 = 100 + 12.25 = 112.25
2) If the path difference of the two waves meeting at ‘Y’ is ∆𝑟 = , then the phase
difference will be, X2 = √112.25 = 10.59 m = 10.6 m
2𝜋 2𝜋  So,, X2 − X1 = 10.6 − 10.1 = 0.5 𝑚
∆𝜑 = ∆𝑟 =  = 2𝜋 
  Put this in equation (1)
Therefore, at the point Y, the two waves from A and B are in phase, hence, the 𝜆
0.5 = (𝑜𝑟)  = 0.5 𝑋 2 = 1 𝑚
intensity will be maximum due to constructive interference. 2
  Frequency of sound source,
3) If the path difference of the two waves meeting at ‘X’ is ∆𝑟 = , then the phase
2 𝑣 343
difference will be, 𝒇= = = 𝟑𝟒𝟑 𝑯𝒛
 1

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11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
18. Consider two sound waves with wavelengths 5 m and 6 m. If these two waves 21. Let f be the fundamental frequency of the string. If the string is divided into
propagate in a gas with velocity 330 ms-1. Calculate the number of beats per three segments 𝒍𝟏 , 𝒍𝟐 , 𝒍𝟑 such that the fundamental frequencies of each
second. 𝟏 𝟏 𝟏 𝟏
segments be f1, f2 and f3, respectively. Show that = + +
𝒇 𝒇𝟏 𝒇𝟐 𝒇𝟑
Solution :-
Solution :-
 Frequency of sound of wavelength 5 m
𝑣 330  For tension T and mass density μ, frequency of transverse waves in stretched
𝑓1 = = = 66 𝐻𝑧 string length of length l is
1 5
 Frequency of sound of wavelength 6 m 1 𝑇 𝑣 𝑣
𝑣 330 𝑓= √ = (𝑜𝑟) 𝑙= − − − − (1)
2𝑙 𝜇 2𝑙 2𝑓
𝑓2 = = = 55 𝐻𝑧
2 6  For first vibrating segment, ,
 The number of beats per second is 𝑣
| f1 − f2| = |66 − 55| = 11 beats per sec 𝑓1 =
2 𝑙1
19.Two vibrating tuning forks produce waves whose equation is given by 𝑣
y1 = 5 sin(240π t) and y2 = 4 sin(244πt). Compute the number of beats per (𝑜𝑟) 𝑙1 = − − − − − − − − − − (2)
2 𝑓1
second.  For second vibrating segment, ,
Solution :- 𝑣
 General wave equation, 𝑓2 =
2 𝑙2
𝑦 = 𝐴 sin(𝜔 𝑡) = 𝐴 sin(2 𝜋 𝑓 𝑡) 𝑣
 Compare 𝑦1 = 5 sin(240 𝜋 𝑡) with the general equation, (𝑜𝑟) 𝑙2 = − − − − − − − − − − (3)
2 𝑓2
𝐴1 = 5 𝑚  For third vibrating segment, ,
240 𝜋 𝑣
2 𝜋 𝑓1 = 240 𝜋 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑓1 = = 120 𝐻𝑧 𝑓3 =
2𝜋 2 𝑙3
 Compare 𝑦2 = 4 sin(244 𝜋 𝑡) with the general equation, 𝑣
𝐴2 = 4 𝑚 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑙3 = − − − − − − − − − − (4)
2 𝑓3
244 𝜋  Hence the total length of the three segments,
2 𝜋 𝑓2 = 244 𝜋 (𝑜𝑟) 𝑓2 = = 122 𝐻𝑧
2𝜋 𝑙 = 𝑙1 + 𝑙2 + 𝑙3
 The number of beats per second is 𝑣 𝑣 𝑣 𝑣
|𝒇𝟏 − 𝒇𝟐 | = |𝟏𝟐𝟎 − 𝟏𝟐𝟐| = 𝟐 beats per sec (𝑖. 𝑒) = + +
2𝑓 2 𝑓1 2 𝑓2 2 𝑓3
20. Compute the distance between anti-node and neighbouring node. 𝟏 𝟏 𝟏 𝟏
Solution :- ∴ = + +
 Position of nth anti node, 𝒇 𝒇𝟏 𝒇𝟐 𝒇𝟑
2𝑛+1 𝜆 22. Consider a string in a guitar whose length is 80 cm and a mass of 0.32 g with
𝑥𝑛 = [ ] tension 80 N is plucked. Compute the first four lowest frequencies produced
2 2
when it is plucked.
 Position of n node,
th
𝜆 Solution :-
𝑥𝑛 = 𝑛  Mass density of the string,
2
 For nth mode, the distance between anti-node and neighbouring node is 𝑚 0.32 𝑋 10−3 0.32 𝑋 10−3
𝜇= = −2
= = 0.4 𝑋 10−3 𝑘𝑔 𝑚−1
2𝑛+1 𝜆 𝜆 𝜆 𝜆 𝜆 𝐿 80 𝑋 10 0.80
Δ𝑥𝑛 = 𝑥𝑛 − 𝑥𝑛 = [ ] − 𝑛 =𝑛 + − 𝑛  Velocity of the waves,
2 2 2 2 4 2
𝝀
𝚫𝒙𝒏 = 𝑇 80 80000
𝟒 𝑣= √ = √ −3
= √
𝜇 0.4 𝑋 10 0.4
𝑣 = √20 𝑋 104 = 102 √20 = 100 𝑋 4.472
𝑣 = 447.2 𝑚 𝑠 −1
 Wavelength of Fundamental note, , 1 = 2 𝐿 = 2 𝑋80 𝑋 10−2 = 160 𝑋 10−2 𝑚
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 Thus fundamental frequency or first harmonic 25. If a flute sounds a note with 450Hz, what are the frequencies of the second,
𝑣 447.2 44720 4472 third, and fourth harmonics of this pitch?. If the clarinet sounds with a same
𝑓1 = = = = = 279.5 𝐻𝑧
1 160 𝑋 10 −2 160 16 note as 450Hz, then what are the frequencies of the lowest three harmonics
 First overtone or second harmonic, produced ?
𝑓2 = 2 𝑓1 = 2 𝑋 279.5 = 559 𝐻𝑧 Solution :-
 Second overtone or third harmonic,  For a flute which is an open pipe, we have 𝑓1 ∶ 𝑓2 ∶ 𝑓3 ∶ 𝑓4 ∶ … . . = 1 ∶ 2 ∶ 3 ∶ 4 ….
𝑓3 = 3 𝑓1 = 3 𝑋 279.5 = 838.5 𝐻𝑧 First harmonic ; 𝑓1 = 450 𝐻𝑧
 Third overtone or fourth harmonic, Second harmonics ; 𝑓2 = 2 𝑓1 = 2 𝑋 450 = 900 𝐻𝑧
𝑓4 = 4 𝑓1 = 4 𝑋 279.5 = 1118 𝐻𝑧 Third harmonics ; 𝑓3 = 3 𝑓1 = 3 𝑋 450 = 1350 𝐻𝑧
23. A baby cries on seeing a dog and the cry is detected at a distance of 3.0 m such Fourth harmonics ; 𝑓4 = 4 𝑓1 = 4 𝑋 450 = 1800 𝐻𝑧
that the intensity of sound at this distance is 10 –2 W m–2. Calculate the intensity  For a clarinet which is a closed pipe, we have 𝑓1 ∶ 𝑓2 ∶ 𝑓3 ∶ 𝑓4 ∶. = 1 ∶ 3 ∶ 5 ∶ 7 ∶.
of the baby’s cry at a distance 6.0 m. First harmonic ; 𝑓1 = 450 𝐻𝑧
Solution :- Second harmonics ; 𝑓2 = 3 𝑓1 = 3 𝑋 450 = 1350 𝐻𝑧
1 𝑓3 = 5 𝑓1 = 5 𝑋 450 = 2250 𝐻𝑧
 We know that the intensity of sound ; 𝐼 ∝ 2 Third harmonics ;
𝑟
Fourth harmonics ; 𝑓4 = 7 𝑓1 = 7 𝑋 450 = 3150 𝐻𝑧
 Hence
1 1 26. If the third harmonics of a closed organ pipe is equal to the fundamental
𝐼1 ∝ & 𝐼2 ∝ frequency of an open organ pipe, compute the length of the open organ pipe if
𝑟1 2 𝑟2 2 the length of the closed organ pipe is 30 cm.
𝐼1 𝑟2 2 Solution :- Let l2 be the length of the open organ pipe, with l1 =30 cm the length of
= 2
𝐼2 𝑟1 the closed organ pipe.
𝑟1 2 𝑟1 2  The third harmonic of a closed organ pipe
𝐼2 = 𝐼1 2 = 𝐼2 [ ]
𝑟2 𝑟2 3𝑣
2 𝑓2 = 3 𝑓1 = − − − − − − − (1)
3 12 1 4 𝑙1
𝐼2 = 10−2 𝑋 [ ] = 10−2 𝑋 [ ] = 𝑋 10−2
6 2 4  The fundamental frequency (first harmonic) of a open organ pipe
𝑰𝟐 = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟓 𝑿 10−2 𝑾 𝒎−𝟐 𝑣
𝑓1 = − − − − − − − (2)
24. Th e sound level from a musical instrument playing is 50 dB. If three identical 2 𝑙2
musical instruments are played together then compute the total intensity. The  It is given that the third harmonic of closed organ pipe is equal to the
intensity of the sound from each instrument is 10–12 W m–2 fundamental frequency of open organ pipe. (i.e.)
Solution :- 3𝑣 𝑣
𝐼1 =
4 𝑙1 2 𝑙2
∆ 𝐿 = 10 log10 [ ] 3 1
𝐼𝑂
𝐼1 =
2 𝑙1 𝑙2
50 𝑑𝐵 = 10 log10 [ ]
𝐼𝑂 2 𝑙1 2 𝑋 30 𝑋 10−2
𝐼1 ∴ 𝒍𝟐 = = = 2 𝑋 10 𝑋 10−2
5 𝑑𝐵 = log10 [ ] 3 3
𝐼𝑂 𝒍𝟐 = 𝟐𝟎 𝑿 𝟏𝟎−𝟐 𝒎 = 𝟐𝟎 𝒄𝒎
𝐼1 27. A frequency generator with fixed frequency of 343 Hz is allowed to vibrate
∴ = 105
𝐼𝑂 above a 1.0 m high tube. A pump is switched on to fill the water slowly in the
𝑰𝟏 = 𝐼𝑂 𝑋 105 = 10−12 𝑋 105 = 𝟏𝟎−𝟕 𝑾 𝒎−𝟐 tube. In order to get resonance, what must be the minimum height of the
 Hence effective intensity of the sound from three instruments, water?. (speed of sound in air is 343 m s−1)
𝑣 343
𝑰𝒆𝒇𝒇 = 𝟑 𝑰𝟏 = 𝟑 𝑿 𝟏𝟎−𝟕 𝑾 𝒎−𝟐 Solution :- Wavelength :  = = =1𝑚
𝑓 343
 Let 𝐿1 𝑏𝑒 first resonant length

 1
𝐿1 = = = 0.25 𝑚
4 4
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 Let 𝐿2 𝑏𝑒 second resonant length (b) Sound is reflected from the cliff and reaches observer,
3 3𝑋1 therefore,
𝐿2 = = = 0.75 𝑚 𝑣𝑠 6
4 4 𝑓  = 𝑓 [1 + ] = 1500 [1 + ]
 Let 𝐿3 𝑏𝑒 third resonant length 𝑣 330
5 5 𝑋1 336 150 𝑋 336
𝐿3 = = = 1.25 𝑚 = 1500 𝑋 =
4 4 330 33
and so on. 𝒇 = 𝟏. 𝟓𝟐𝟕 𝑿 𝟏𝟎𝟑 𝑯𝒛 = 𝟏𝟓𝟐𝟕 𝑯𝒛
 Since total length of the tube is 1.0 m the third and other higher resonances do 31. An observer observes two moving trains one reaching the station and other
not occur. Therefore, the minimum height of water 𝒉𝒎𝒊𝒏 for resonance is, leaving the station with equal speeds of 8 m s−1. If each train sounds its whistles
𝒉𝒎𝒊𝒏 = 𝟏. 𝟎 − 𝟎. 𝟕𝟓 = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟓 𝒎 with frequency 240 Hz, then calculate the number of beats heard by the
28. A student performed an experiment to determine the speed of sound in air observer.
using the resonance column method. The length of the air column that Solution :-
resonates in the fundamental mode with a tuning fork is 0.2 m. If the length is  Observer is stationary
varied such that the same tuning fork resonates with the first overtone at 0.7 (i) Source (train) is moving towards an observer: The
m. Calculate the end correction. observed frequency due to train arriving station is
Solution :- 𝑣𝑠 8
𝑓 1𝑛 = 𝑓 [1 + ] = 240 [1 + ]
 The end correction, 𝑣 330
𝐿2 − 3 𝐿1 0.7 − 3 (0.2) 0.7 − 0.6 0.1 338 24 𝑋 338
𝑒= = = = = 240 𝑋 =
2 2 2 2 330 33
𝒆 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟓 𝒎 𝑓 1𝑛 = 𝟐. 𝟒𝟓𝟖 𝑿 𝟏𝟎𝟐 𝑯𝒛 = 𝟐𝟒𝟓. 𝟖 𝑯𝒛 = 𝟐𝟒𝟔 𝑯𝒛
29. Consider a tuning fork which is used to produce resonance in an air column. A (ii) Source (train) is moving away from an observer: The observed frequency
resonance air column is a glass tube whose length can be adjusted by a variable due to train leaving station is
piston. At room temperature, the two successive resonances observed are at 20 𝑣𝑠 8
𝒇𝒐𝒖𝒕  = 𝑓 [1 − ] = 240 [1 − ]
cm and 85 cm of the column length. If the frequency of the length is 256 Hz, 𝑣 330
compute the velocity of the sound in air at room temperature. 322 24 𝑋 322
= 240 𝑋 =
Solution :- 330 33
 Velocity of sound in air at toom temperature, 𝒇𝒐𝒖𝒕  = 𝟐. 𝟑𝟒𝟏 𝑿 𝟏𝟎𝟐 𝑯𝒛 = 𝟐𝟑𝟒. 𝟏 𝑯𝒛 = 𝟐𝟑𝟒 𝑯𝒛
𝑣 = 𝑓  = 𝑓 (2 ∆𝐿) = 2 𝑓 (𝐿2 − 𝐿1 )  So the number of beats ,
𝑣 = 2 𝑋 256 𝑋 (85 − 20 )𝑋 10−2 |𝒇 𝟏𝒏 − 𝒇 𝑯𝒖𝒕 | = 𝟐𝟒𝟔 − 𝟐𝟑𝟒 = 𝟏𝟐
𝑣 = 2 𝑋 256 𝑋 65 𝑋 10−2
𝒗 = 𝟑𝟑𝟐. 𝟖 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏
30. A sound of frequency 1500 Hz is emitted by a source which moves away from
an observer and moves towards a cliff at a speed of 6 ms–1.
(a) Calculate the frequency of the sound which is coming directly from the
source.
(b) Compute the frequency of sound heard by the observer reflected off the
cliff. Assume the speed of sound in air is 330 m s–1.
Solution :-
(a) Source is moving away and observer is stationary, therefore, the frequency of
sound heard directly from source is
𝑣𝑠 6
𝑓  = 𝑓 [1 − ] = 1500 [1 − ]
𝑣 330
324 150 𝑋 324
= 1500 𝑋 =
330 33
𝒇 = 𝟏. 𝟒𝟕𝟑 𝑿 𝟏𝟎𝟑 𝑯𝒛 = 𝟏𝟒𝟕𝟑 𝑯𝒛

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3. A ship in a sea sends SONAR waves straight down into the seawater from the
EXAMPLE PROBLEMS WITH SOLUTIONS bottom of the ship. The signal reflects from the deep bottom bed rock and
1. The speed of a wave in a certain medium is 900 m/s. If 3000 waves passes over returns to the ship after 3.5 s. After the ship moves to 100 km it sends another
a certain point of the medium in 2 minutes, then compute its wavelength?. signal which returns back after 2s. Calculate the depth of the sea in each case
Solution :- Since 3000 waves passes over in 2 minutes (120 s), the number of waves and also compute the difference in height between two cases. (velocity of
passes per second is, sound in sea water = 𝟏𝟓𝟑𝟑 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏 )
3000 Solution :-
𝑓= = 25 𝑝𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑
120  Depth at first place,
 Then the wavelength, 𝑣 𝑋 𝑡1 1533 𝑋 3.5 5365.5
𝒗 𝟗𝟎𝟎 𝑑1 = = = = 2682.75 𝑚
 = = = 𝟑𝟔 𝒎 2 2 2
𝒇 𝟐𝟓  Depth at second place
2. Consider a mixture of 2 mol of helium and 4 mol of oxygen. Compute the speed 𝑣 𝑋 𝑡2 1533 𝑋 2
of sound in this gas mixture at 300 K. 𝑑2 = = = 1533 𝑚
2 2
Solution :-  The difference in height between two cases,
 From Newton-Laplace formula, the speed of sound, ∆𝒅 = 𝒅𝟏 − 𝒅𝟐 = 𝟐𝟔𝟖𝟐. 𝟕𝟓 − 𝟏𝟓𝟑𝟑 = 𝟏𝟏𝟒𝟗 . 𝟕𝟓 𝒎
4. A sound wave is transmitted into a tube as shown in figure. The sound wave
𝛾𝑃 𝛾𝑃 𝛾𝑃𝑉 𝛾𝑅𝑇
𝑣 = √ = √ =√ = √ − − − − − − − (1) splits into two waves at the point A which recombine at point B. Let R be the
𝜌 𝑀/𝑉 𝑀 𝑀 radius of the semi-circle which is varied until the first minimum. Calculate the
 Mass of gas mixture is found as follows. radius of the semi-circle if the wavelength of the sound is 50.0 m.
Mass of helium (He )atom 𝑀1 = 4 and mass of oxygen (O) atom, 𝑀2 = 32 .
Hence,
𝑛1 𝑀1 + 𝑛2 𝑀2 (2𝑋4) + (4𝑋32) 8 + 128 136
𝑀= = = =
𝑛1 + 𝑛2 2+4 6 6
−1 −3 −1
𝑀 = 22.66 𝑔 𝑚𝑜𝑙 = 22.66 𝑋 10 𝑘𝑔 𝑚𝑜𝑙
 The value of the ratio γ is found as follows.
3
Here helium is monoatomic gas and hence 𝐶𝑉 = 𝑅
2 Solution :-
5
And oxygen is diatomic gas and hence 𝐶𝑉 = 𝑅  The length of semi circle from A to B
2
Hence effective value of 𝐶𝑉 of the gas mixture, 𝑟1 = 𝜋 𝑅 = 3.14 𝑅
3 5  The length of straight line from A to B
𝑛1 𝐶𝑉 + 𝑛2 𝐶𝑉 (2𝑋 𝑅) + (4𝑋 𝑅) 3 𝑅 + 10 𝑅 13 𝑅
𝐶𝑉 = = 2 2 = = − − (2) 𝑟2 = 2 𝑅
𝑛1 + 𝑛2 2+4 6 6  Hence path difference, ∆𝑟 = 𝑟1 − 𝑟2 = 3.14 𝑅 − 2 𝑅 = 𝑅(3.14 − 2) = 1.14 𝑅
From Mayer’ s equation, ,  From the condition of minimum intensity, ∆𝑟 = 𝑛

(Here, n = 1, 3, 5,…….)
𝐶𝑃 − 𝐶𝑉 = 𝑅 2
13 𝑅 19 𝑅  Hence condition for first minimum,
(𝑜𝑟) 𝐶𝑃 = 𝐶𝑉 + 𝑅 = + 𝑅= − − − (3) 
6 6 ∆𝑟 =
19 𝑅 2
𝐶𝑃 [ ] 19 
∴ 𝛾= = 6 = = 1.462 (𝑜𝑟) 1.14 𝑅 =
𝐶𝑉 13 𝑅 13 2
[ ] 
6
 Put the values of 𝑀, 𝛾, 𝑅 in equation (1), 𝑅=
2 𝑋 1.14
50 50
𝛾𝑅𝑇 1.462 𝑋 8.31 𝑋 300 𝑅 = =
𝑣 = √ = √ 2 𝑋 1.14 2.28
𝑀 22.66 𝑋 10−3 𝑹 = 𝟐𝟏. 𝟗𝟑 𝒎
𝒗 = 𝟒𝟎𝟎. 𝟗 𝒎 𝒔−𝟏

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5. N tuning forks are arranged in order of increasing frequency and any two 8. A police in a siren car moving with a velocity 20 ms-1 chases a thief who is
successive tuning forks give n beats per second when sounded together. If the moving in a car with a velocity v0ms-1. The police car sounds at frequency
last fork gives double the frequency of the first (called as octave), Show that the 300Hz, and both of them move towards a stationary siren of frequency 400Hz.
frequency of the first tuning fork is f = (N−1)n. Calculate the speed in which thief is moving. (Assume the thief does not
Solution :- observe any beat)
 Number of tuning forks = 𝑁 Solution :-
 Let 𝒇 be the frequency of first tuning fork and ‘n’ be the number beats per second  Velocity of sound 𝑣 = 330 𝑚/𝑠
when two successive forks are sounding together, then the frequencies of N Velocity of a police siren car 𝑣𝑠 = 20 𝑚/𝑠
tuning forks in ascending order, f, f  n, f  2n, f  3n, …….. , 2 f Frequency of a police siren car 𝑓 = 300𝐻𝑧
 This is similar to the AP having ‘n’ number of terms (i.e.) a, a+d, a+2d, a+3d,………. Frequency of police siren heard by thief is
We know the nth term in AP is, 𝑡𝑛 = 𝑎 + (𝑛 − 1)𝑑 𝑣 − 𝑣𝑜 330 − 𝑣𝑜 330 − 𝑣𝑜
𝑓1 = [ ]𝑓= [ ] × 300 = [ ] × 300
 Here, the frequency of last tuning fork is 2 𝑓 , 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑣 − 𝑣𝑠 330 − 20 310
2 𝑓 = 𝑓 + (𝑁 − 1)𝑛  Frequency of stationary siren 𝑓 = 400𝐻𝑧
2 𝑓 − 𝑓 = (𝑁 − 1) 𝑛 Frequency of stationary siren heard by thief
𝒇 = (𝑵 − 𝟏) 𝒏 𝑣 + 𝑣𝑜 330 + 𝑣𝑜
𝑓2 = [ ]𝑓= [ ] × 400
6. Let the source propagate a sound wave whose intensity at a point (initially) be 𝑣 330
I. Suppose we consider a case when the amplitude of the sound wave is doubled  It there are no beats then 𝑓1 = 𝑓2
and the frequency is reduced to one-fourth. Calculate now the new intensity of 330 − 𝑣𝑜 330 + 𝑣𝑜
[ ] × 300 = [ ] × 400
sound at the same point? 310 330
Solution :- (330 − 𝑣𝑜 ) × 0.9677 = (330 + 𝑣𝑜 ) × 1.2121
 Intensity of sound, , 𝐼 = 2 𝜋 2 𝜌 𝑣 𝑓 2 𝐴2 (or) 𝐼 ∝ 𝑓 2 𝐴2 319.341 − 0.9677 𝑣𝑜 = 399.993 + 1.2121 𝑣𝑜
 Hence, I1 ∝ 𝑓12 𝐴 12 and I2 ∝ 𝑓22 𝐴 22 1.2121 𝑣0 + 0.9677 𝑣𝑜 = 319.341 − 399.993
2.1798 𝑣𝑡 = − 80.652
I1 2
𝑓1 𝐴 12 𝑓1 2 𝐴1 2 80.652
= 2 2= [ ] [ ] − − − − − − (1) 𝑣𝑜 = = 36.99 = 𝟑𝟕 𝒎/𝒔
I2 𝑓2 𝐴 2 𝑓2 𝐴2 2.1798
𝑓
 Given that, 𝐴2 = 2 𝐴1 and 𝑓2 = 1 .Put this in equation (1) , 9. Consider the following function (a) 𝒚 = 𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐 𝜶 𝒕 (b) 𝒚 = (𝒙 + 𝒗 𝒕)𝟐
4
2 which among the above function can be characterized as a wave ?.
I1 𝑓1 𝐴1 2 12 1 𝝏𝟐 𝒚 𝟏 𝝏𝟐 𝒚
= [ ] [ ] = [4] 2
[ ] = 16 𝑋 = 4 Solution :- We know that , the wave equation as,
𝝏𝒙𝟐
= 𝒗𝟐 𝝏𝒕𝟐
I2 𝑓1 2 𝐴1 2 4
( ) (a) 𝒚 = 𝒙𝟐 + 𝟐 𝜶 𝒕 𝒙
4
 Partially differentiate above equation first w.r.to x and then w.r.to t,
 Hence new intensity of sound, ,
𝐈𝟏 𝜕𝑦
𝐈𝟐 = =2𝑥+ 2𝛼𝑡
𝟒 𝜕𝑥
7. Consider two organ pipes of same length in which one organ pipe is closed and 𝜕2𝑦
& = 2 − − − − − − − − − − − − − − (1)
another organ pipe is open. If the fundamental frequency of closed pipe is 𝜕𝑥 2
250 Hz. Calculate the fundamental frequency of the open pipe. 𝜕𝑦
𝑠𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑦, = 2𝛼𝑥
Solution :- 𝜕𝑡
𝑣
 Fundamental frequency in closed organ tube, 𝑓𝐶 = − − − − − − − (1) 𝜕2𝑦
4𝐿
𝑣 & =0
 Fundamental frequency in open organ tube, 𝑓𝑂 = − − − − − − − (2) 𝜕𝑡 2
2
𝑣
2𝐿 1 𝜕 𝑦
(2) 𝑓𝑂 [ ] ∴ = 0 − − − − − − − − − − − − − (2)
𝑣 2 𝜕𝑡 2
⟹ = 2𝑣𝐿 = 2  From equation (1) and (2)
(1) 𝑓𝐶 [ ]
4𝐿 𝝏𝟐 𝒚 𝟏 𝝏𝟐 𝒚
𝒇𝑶 = 𝟐 𝒇𝑪 = 𝟐 𝑿 𝟐𝟓𝟎 = 𝟓𝟎𝟎 𝑯𝒛 𝟐
≠ 𝟐
𝝏𝒕 𝒗 𝝏𝒙𝟐
 Hence this function (a) not describing wave
victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed PG ASST [PHYSICS], GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502
11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
𝟐 𝟐 𝟐 𝟐
(b) 𝒚 = (𝒙 + 𝒗 𝒕) = 𝒙 + 𝒗 𝒕 + 𝟐 𝒙 𝒗 𝒕
 Partially differentiate above equation first w.r.to x and then w.r.to t,
𝜕𝑦
= 2𝑥+0+ 2𝑣𝑡
𝜕𝑥
2
𝜕 𝑦
& =2 − − − − − − − − − − − − − − (3)
𝜕𝑥 2
𝜕𝑦
𝑠𝑖𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑦, = 0 + 𝑣 2 (2 𝑡) + 2 𝑥 𝑣
𝜕𝑡
𝜕2𝑦
& = 2 𝑣2
𝜕𝑡 2
1 𝜕2𝑦 2 𝑣2
∴ = = 2 − − − − − − − − − − − − (4)
𝑣 2 𝜕𝑥 2 𝑣2
 From equation (1) and (2)
𝝏𝟐 𝒚 𝟏 𝝏𝟐 𝒚
=
𝝏𝒕𝟐 𝒗𝟐 𝝏𝒙𝟐
 Hence this function (b) satisfies wave equation.

victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed PG ASST [PHYSICS], GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502
 11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
EXAM NO 6. A sound wave whose frequency is 5000 Hz travels in air and then hits the water
NAME : surface. Th e ratio of its wavelengths in water and air is
UNIT -11 WAVES a) 4.30 b) 0.23 c) 5.30 d) 1.23
7. A person standing between two parallel hills fi res a gun and hears the fi rst
Time - 2 : 30 hours Total - 60 marks echo after t1 sec and the second echo after t2 sec. The distance between the two
PART - I 15 X 1 = 15 hills is
𝑣 (𝑡1 −𝑡2 ) 𝑣 (𝑡1 𝑡2 ) 𝑣 (𝑡1 +𝑡2 )
Note : (i) Answer all the questions a) b) c) 𝑣(𝑡1 + 𝑡2 ) d)
2 2 (𝑡1 +𝑡2 ) 2
(ii) Choose the best answer and write the option code and
corresponding answer 8. An air column in a pipe which is closed at one end, will be in resonance with the
1. A student tunes his guitar by striking a 120 Hertz with a tuning fork, and vibrating body of frequency 83Hz. Then the length of the air column is
simultaneously plays the 4th string on his guitar. By keen observation, he hears a) 1.5 m b) 0.5 m c) 1.0 m d) 2.0 m
the amplitude of the combined sound oscillating thrice per second. Which of the 9. The displacement y of a wave travelling in the x direction is given by
𝝅
following frequencies is the most likely the frequency of the 4th string on his 𝒚 = (𝟐 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟑 ) 𝐬𝐢𝐧 (𝟑𝟎𝟎 𝒕 − 𝟐𝒙 + 𝟒 ) , where x and y are measured in metres
guitar?. and t in second. The speed of the wave is
a) 130 b) 117 c) 110 d) 120 a) 150 ms-1 b) 300 ms-1 c) 450 ms-1 d) 600 ms-1
2. A transverse wave moves from a medium A to a medium B. In medium A, the 10. Consider two uniform wires vibrating simultaneously in their fundamental
velocity of the transverse wave is 500 ms-1 and the wavelength is 5 m. Th e notes. The tensions, densities, lengths and diameter of the two wires are in the
frequency and the wavelength of the wave in medium B when its velocity is 600 ratio 8 : 1, 1 : 2, x : y and 4 : 1 respectively. If the note of the higher pitch has a
ms-1, respectively are frequency of 360 Hz and the number of beats produced per second is 10, then
a) 120 Hz and 5 m b) 100 Hz and 5 m the value of x : y is
c) 120 Hz and 6 m d) 100 Hz and 6 m a) 36 : 35 b) 35 : 36 c) 1 : 1 d) 1 : 2
3. For a particular tube, among six harmonic frequencies below 1000 Hz, only four 11. Which of the following represents a wave?
harmonic frequencies are given : 300 Hz, 600 Hz, 750 Hz and 900 Hz. What are a) (𝑥 − 𝑣𝑡)3 b) 𝑥(𝑥 + 𝑣𝑡)
the two other frequencies missing from this list?. 1
c) d) 𝑠𝑖𝑛(𝑥 + 𝑣𝑡)
a) 100 Hz, 150 Hz b) 150 Hz, 450 Hz (𝑥+𝑣 𝑡)
c) 450 Hz, 700 Hz d) 700 Hz, 800 Hz 12. A man sitting on a swing which is moving to an angle of 60° from the vertical is
4. Which of the following options is correct?. blowing a whistle which has a frequency of 2.0 k Hz. The whistle is 2.0 m from
A B the fixed support point of the swing. A sound detector which detects the whistle
(1) Quality (A) Intensity sound is kept in front of the swing. The maximum frequency the sound detector
(2) Pitch (B) Waveform detected is
a) 2.027 kHz b) 1.974 kHz c) 9.74 kHz d) 1.011 kHz
(3) Loudness (C) Frequency 𝟏
Options for (1), (2) and (3), respectively are 13. Let 𝒚 = at t = 0 s be the amplitude of the wave propagating in the positive
𝟏+ 𝒙𝟐
a) (B),(C) and (A) b) (C), (A) and (B) x-direction. At t = 2 s, the amplitude of the wave propagating becomes
c) (A), (B) and (C) d) (B), (A) and (C) 𝟏
𝒚 = 𝟏+ (𝒙−𝟐)𝟐. Assume that the shape of the wave does not change during
5. Compare the velocities of the wave forms given below, and choose the correct
option. where, vA, vB, vC and propagation. The velocity of the wave is
vD are velocities given in a) 0.5m s-1 b) 1.0m s-1 c) 1.5m s-1 d) 2.0m s-1
(A), (B), (C) and (D), 14. A uniform rope having mass m hangs vertically from a rigid support. A
respectively. transverse wave pulse is produced at the lower end. Which of the following plots
shows the correct variation of speed v with height h from the lower end?
(a ) vA > vB > vD > vC
(b) vA< vB < vD < vC
(c) vA = vB = vD = vC
(d) vA > vB = vD > vC
a) b) c) d)
victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed PG ASST [PHYSICS], GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502
 11 PHYSICS www.nammakalvi.com UNIT – 11 WAVES COMPLETE GUIDE AND MODEL QUESTION
15. An organ pipe A closed at one end is allowed to vibrate in its first harmonic and
another pipe B open at both ends is allowed to vibrate in its third harmonic.
Both A and B are in resonance with a given tuning fork. The ratio of the length
of A and B is
8 3 1 1
a) 3 b) c) d)
8 6 3
PART - II 6 X 2 = 12
Note : (i) Answer any 6 of the following questions .
(ii) Question No. 23 is compulsory
16. What are the properties of wave motion.
17. Obtain the relation between frequency and wavelength.
18. Define specular reflection.
19. Define wavelength;
20. What are called beats?
21. Define intensity of sound.
22. What is meant by Doppler’s effect?
23. A mobile phone tower transmits a wave signal of frequency 900MHz. Calculate the
length of the waves transmitted from the mobile phone tower.
PART - III 6 X 3 = 18
Note : (i) Answer any 6 of the following questions .
(ii) Question No. 30 is compulsory
24. Distinguish between transverse and longitudinal waves.
25. Briefly explain the difference between travelling waves and standing waves.
26. Explain how the temperature will affect the velocity of sound in gasses.
27. Explain the concept of fundamental frequency, harmonics and overtones in detail.
28. State the laws of transverse vibrations in a stretched string.
29. Explain the relation between intensity and loudness (Weber Fechner’s law)
30. Two vibrating tuning forks produce waves whose equation is given by
y1 = 5 sin(240π t) and y2 = 4 sin(244πt). Compute the number of beats per second
PART - IV 3 X 5 = 15
Note : (i) Answer all the questions
31. Derive the expression for the velocity of a travelling wave produced in a string
(OR)
Derive the expression for velocity of longitudinal waves in an elastic medium
32. Describe Newton’s formula for velocity of sound waves in air and also discuss
Laplace correction. யாதும் ஊரே யாவரும் ரேளிர்
(OR) - எல்லா ஊரும் நம் ஊர், எல்லா உயிர்ேளும் எம் உறவினர்ேள்
What is Sonometer? Give its construction and working. Explain how to determine the தீதும் நன்றும் பிறர் தே வாோ
frequency of tuning fork using sonometer. - தீமையும் நம்மையும் அடுத்தவர்ேளால் நைக்கு வருவதல்ல
33. Explain how overtones are produced in a closed organ pipe.
(OR)
What is meant by Doppler effect?. Discuss the following cases புறநானூறு - ேணியன் பூங்குன்றனார்
(1) Source in motion and Observer at rest
(2) Observer in motion and Source at rest.
victory R. SARAVANAN. M.Sc., M.Phil., B.Ed PG ASST [PHYSICS], GBHSS, PARANGIPETTAI - 608 502