Very hard

Two tuning forks of 256 Hz and 260 Hz are sounded together. The beat frequency is

Correct answer: A. 4 Hz

  • A. 4 Hz
  • B. 258 Hz
  • C. 516 Hz
  • D. 0.5 Hz

Explanation

The beat frequency is simply the difference between the two frequencies, so 260 minus 256 gives 4 beats per second. Their average, 258 Hz, is the pitch actually heard, which is why it appears as a distractor. Beats become too rapid to distinguish once the difference exceeds about 10 Hz.

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About Superposition and Interference

Superposition states that overlapping waves produce a resultant displacement equal to the algebraic sum of their individual displacements. Interference covers constructive and destructive interference, phase difference, path difference, coherent sources, and conditions for maxima and minima. It differs from diffraction, which involves spreading around openings or obstacles.

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