The intensity of a wave is:
Correct answer: B. Directly proportional to (amplitude)2
- A. Directly proportional to the amplitude
- B. Directly proportional to (amplitude)2
- C. Inversely proportional to amplitude
- D. Inversely proportional to (amplitude)2
Explanation
The intensity of a wave is directly proportional to the square of its amplitude (I∝A2). This means if the amplitude of a wave doubles, the intensity increases by a factor of four. Option B is correct because it accurately reflects this relationship. Option A is incorrect because it implies a linear relationship, which is not the case. Options C and D are incorrect because they suggest that intensity is inversely related to amplitude, which contradicts the fundamental principle of wave physics.
This question appeared on the ETEA MDCAT 2012 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.
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