Moderate

An air pipe is open at one end. A stationary wave is produced in second-harmonic mode. What is the phase difference between the motion of the particles at the closed end of the pipe and at the centre of the pipe?

Correct answer: C. 180°

  • A.
  • B. 90°
  • C. 180°
  • D. 270°

Explanation

In a pipe that is open at one end and closed at the other, the stationary wave pattern for the second harmonic consists of a node at the closed end and an antinode at the open end. The center of the pipe will be a node. The particles at the closed end (node) and those at the center (node) exhibit a 180° phase difference as they move in opposite directions at any given time. Options A, B, and D do not accurately describe the phase relationship for the second harmonic in this scenario.

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About Waves

Progressive waves transfer energy through oscillations, with wavelength, frequency, amplitude and wave speed related by v = fλ; sound speed depends on the medium. Superposition produces interference and stationary waves in strings and organ pipes, while simple harmonic motion describes the oscillation itself and must be distinguished from wave propagation.

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