Question 1: Define the term 'wave speed' in the context of wave properties.

Answer: Wave speed is the distance travelled by a wave per unit time, measured in metres per second (m/s).

Question 2: Explain why the wave speed remains constant in a uniform medium regardless of the wave's frequency or wavelength.

Answer: In a uniform medium, wave speed depends on the properties of the medium itself, such as elasticity and density, and not on the wave's frequency or wavelength.

Question 3: What is the equation that relates wave speed (v), frequency (f), and wavelength (λ)?

Answer: v = f × λ

Question 1: A wave has a wavelength of 0.5 metres and a frequency of 200 Hz. Calculate its wave speed in m/s.

Answer: v = 100 m/s

Question 2: If a wave travels at 300 m/s and its wavelength is 2 metres, what is its frequency?

Answer: f = 150 Hz

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to measure the wave speed of a wave in a ripple tank. Include the variables you would control and safety precautions needed.

Answer: A ripple tank experiment involves generating waves in a shallow tank with a vibrating source. To measure wave speed, measure the wavelength using a ruler and the time for a wave crest to travel a known distance using a stopwatch. Calculate wave speed as distance divided by time. Variables to control include the frequency of the vibrating source and water level. Safety precautions include handling electrical equipment safely and ensuring water does not spill onto electrical outlets.

Question 1: A series of waves in a medium have measured wavelengths of 0.3 m, 0.6 m, and 1.2 m. If all waves travel at the same speed of 150 m/s, calculate the frequencies of each wave.

Answer: f1 = 500 Hz, f2 = 250 Hz, f3 = 125 Hz

Question 1: A wave with a wavelength of 0.75 metres travels at a speed of 150 m/s. Calculate its frequency. Show your working.

Answer: f = 200 Hz

Question 2: Explain how the wave equation v = f × λ can be used to determine the wavelength of a wave when the wave speed and frequency are known.

Answer: Knowing the wave speed and frequency, you can rearrange the wave equation to solve for wavelength: λ = v / f. By dividing the wave speed (v) by the frequency (f), you find the wavelength (λ). This allows calculation of the wavelength directly from measurable quantities.

Question 1: Discuss how understanding the wave equation is crucial in the design of communication systems such as radio and mobile networks.

Answer: Wave equations help engineers calculate the wavelength, frequency, and speed of electromagnetic waves used in radio and mobile communications. This ensures signals are transmitted effectively over desired distances and frequencies are optimised to prevent interference.