Ripples on the surface of a pond and sound produced by a factory whistle are observed…

PHYSICS · Multi-part · A Level · Physics · Waves · Waves

Problem

Ripples on the surface of a pond and sound produced by a factory whistle are observed at the same time. (i) State the type of wave represented by the ripples and by the sound, giving one reason in each case. (ii) The ripples have a frequency of 2.0 Hz2.0\,\text{Hz} and a wavelength of 0.30 m0.30\,\text{m}. Calculate their speed. (iii) The whistle emits sound of frequency 680 Hz680\,\text{Hz}. If the speed of sound in air is 340 m s−1340\,\text{m\,s}^{-1}, calculate its wavelength. (iv) Comment on the difference in speeds obtained in parts (ii) and (iii) with reference to the different media and nature of the waves.

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