Two tuning forks A and B produce notes of close but unequal frequencies f1 and f2 when sounded together at a fixed point P in air.
(a) Define the phenomenon of beats as observed in sound waves.
(b) Explain, with suitable reasoning, why the time interval between two successive loud sounds (maxima) at P depends only on the numerical difference ∣f1−f2∣. Hence state the value of this interval in terms of f1 and f2.
(c) An observer hears 8 beats in one second. Without carrying out any detailed calculation, state whether the loud maxima arrive more often than every 0.2s or less often, and justify your answer.