Sound And Waves - SS1 Physics Past Questions and Answers - page 3

 Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive points in a wave that are in phase. It is typically measured as the distance between two identical points on adjacent wave cycles, such as from crest to crest or trough to trough. Wavelength is denoted by the symbol λ (lambda) and is measured in metres (m) or any other appropriate unit of length.

   Period refers to the time it takes for one complete cycle of a wave to pass a given point. It is the reciprocal of the frequency of the wave. Period is denoted by the symbol T and is measured in seconds (s) or any other appropriate unit of time.

   Speed of a wave refers to the rate at which the wave propagates through a medium. It represents the distance travelled by a wave per unit of time. Speed is denoted by the symbol v and is measured in metres per second (m/s) or any other appropriate unit of velocity.

Wavelength, period, and speed are fundamental properties of waves that provide important information for understanding and analyzing different types of waves.

Wavelength is crucial for determining the characteristics of a wave. It helps identify the type of wave, such as whether it is a sound wave, light wave, or electromagnetic wave. Wavelength also influences the energy and intensity of a wave. For example, shorter wavelengths are associated with higher energy and higher frequencies, while longer wavelengths are associated with lower energy and lower frequencies.

Period is essential for studying the time-based behaviour of waves. It helps determine the frequency of a wave, which is the number of complete cycles the wave completes per unit of time. Frequency is directly related to the pitch of sound waves and the colour of light waves. Waves with higher frequencies have shorter periods, and waves with lower frequencies have longer periods.

Speed is a critical property that describes how fast a wave travels through a medium. It provides valuable information about the behaviour of waves, such as their transmission, reflection, and refraction. The speed of a wave depends on the properties of the medium through which it propagates. For example, the speed of sound waves varies depending on the medium they travel through, such as air, water, or solids. The speed of light waves also changes when they pass through different media, such as air, water, or glass.

Reflection of sound waves occurs when sound encounters a surface and bounces back. The angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection. For example, when a person shouts in front of a large flat wall, the sound waves bounce off the wall and reach the person's ears as reflected sound. The intensity of the reflected sound depends on factors such as the nature of the surface (smooth or rough), the angle of incidence, and the distance between the source and the reflecting surface. A smooth, hard surface reflects sound more efficiently, resulting in a higher intensity of reflected sound.