6.1.

2 Properties of Waves
Required Practical Activity 20 (Physics 8) - make observations to identify the
suitability of apparatus to measure the frequency, wavelength and speed of waves in a
ripple tank, and waves in a solid, and take appropriate measurements.

Activity 1: Observing waves in a ripple tank

Wavelength,  – measure across as many waves

as possible, then divide the total length by the
number of waves.
Frequency, f – it should be possible to count the
number of waves passing a point in the pattern
over a given time (say 10 seconds). Then divide
the number of waves counted by 10.

The formula used is v = f 

The video is from St Marys Science. Focus on the difficulties with measurements and how they were overcome.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55z1xL_CBb8
 6.1.2 Properties of Waves
Measuring the speed of waves
Measuring the speed of sound
using microphones and digital
timer.

Measuring the speed of water waves

speed = distance
Speed = length of tank × number of lengths time
time to do all the lengths
 6.1.2 Properties of Waves
Required Practical Activity 20 (Physics 8) - make observations to identify the
suitability of apparatus to measure the frequency, wavelength and speed of waves in a
ripple tank, and waves in a solid, and take appropriate measurements.

Activity 2: Observing waves on a stretched string or elastic cord

Frequency, f – no further
apparatus needs to be
used. The frequency will
be the frequency of the
power supply.

Wavelength,  – a metre ruler will be used to measure across as many

half wavelengths as possible. Then divide the total length by the number
of half waves. Multiplying this number by two will give the wavelength.

The formula used is v = f 

A demonstration from James Dann
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gr7KmTOrx0