Moderate

Progressive waves of frequency 300 Hz are superimposed to produce a system of stationary waves in which adjacent nodes are 1.5m apart. What is the speed of the progressive waves?

Correct answer: D. 900 m/s

  • A. 100m/s
  • B. 200m/s
  • C. 450 m/s
  • D. 900 m/s

Explanation

In a system of stationary waves, the distance between adjacent nodes (nodes are points of zero displacement) is related to the wavelength (λ) of the progressive waves that form the stationary waves. The relationship is given by:Distance between adjacent nodes=λ/2The speed (v) of the progressive waves is related to the frequency (f) and the wavelength (λ) by the equation:v=fλGiven that the frequency (f) is 300 Hz and the distance between adjacent nodes is 1.5 m, we can find the wavelength (λ):1.5m=λ/2=3mv=300Hz×3m=900m/s

Last updated

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.

Practise Waves

1,281 free Waves MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 13 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

Related questions