1.

Light travelling from water to air is incident on a boundary.

Which of the following is a correct statement of Snells law for this situation?
A.

sin Z = constant sin Y

B.

sin W = constant sin Z

C.

sin X = constant sin Z

D.

sin W = constant sin Y

(1)

2.

A standing wave is established on a string between two fixed points.

At the instant shown, point T is moving downwards. Which arrow gives the
direction of movement of point U at this instant?
A.

B.

C.

D.

D
(1)

3.

A pulse is travelling along a string attached to a wall.

Which of the following shows the shape of the string after reflection from the
wall?
(1)

4.

The diagram below shows the displacement-position graph at a particular

instant for a longitudinal wave travelling along a spring.

A positive displacement on the graph indicates that the coils of the spring
are displaced to the right of their equilibrium position.
At which position along the spring is the displacement of two adjacent coils
a maximum?
A.

B.

C.

D.

D
(1)

5.

The diagrams below show two standing wave patterns that are set up in a
stretched string fixed at both ends. The frequency of pattern 1 is f1 and that
of pattern 2 is f2.

The ratio is
A.

B.

C.

3.

D.

6.
(1)

6.

The phenomenon of diffraction is associated with

A.

sound waves only.

B.

light waves only.

C.

water waves only.

D.

all waves.
(1)

7.

A transverse travelling wave has amplitude A0 and wavelength .

The distance between a crest and its neighbouring trough, measured in the
direction of energy transfer of the wave is equal to
A.

A 0.

B.

2A0.

C.

D.

.
(1)

8.

A light wave travelling through a vacuum is incident on a block of glass.

What change, if any, occurs in the frequency and amplitude of the wave as
it travels into the glass?
frequency

amplitude

A.

decreases

decreases

B.

decreases

constant

C.

constant

decreases

D.

constant

constant
(1)

9.

Which statement is true for standing (stationary) waves?

A.

All points in the wave vibrate in phase.

B.

There is no energy in a standing wave.

C.

The wavelength of the wave is the distance between adjacent nodes.

D.

Neighbouring points in the wave have different amplitudes of vibration.

(1)

10. Which two conditions are necessary for observable interference between
two light beams?
A.

meet at a point

constant phase difference

B.

constant phase difference

C.

same frequency

similar amplitude

D.

similar amplitude

meet at a point

similar amplitude

(1)

11. A stationary source of sound emits waves of wavelength , period T and

speed V. The source now moves with speed v in a straight line away from a
stationary observer.
What are the wavelength and the speed of the wave as detected by the
observer?
wavelength

speed

A.

V+v

B.

vT

C.

Vv

D.

+ vT

V
(1)

12. The diagram below shows plane wavefronts of a wave that is approaching
the boundary between two media, X and Y. The speed of the wave is greater
in medium X than in medium Y. The wave crosses the boundary.

Which of the following diagrams is correct?

(1)

13. The graph below shows the variation with time t of the separate
displacements d of a medium, at a particular point in the medium due to
two waves, P and Q.

The amplitude of the wave resulting from the interference of P and Q is

A.

0.0 mm.

B.

1.0 mm.

C.

1.4 mm.

D.

2.0 mm.
(1)

14. One end of a long string is vibrated at a constant frequency f. A travelling

wave of wavelength and speed v is set up on the string.
The frequency of vibration is doubled but the tension in the string is
unchanged. Which of the following shows the wavelength and speed of the
new travelling wave?
Wavelength

Speed

A.
B.

v
2v

C.

D.

2v
(1)

15. A string with both ends fixed is made to vibrate in the second harmonic
mode as shown by the dashed lines in the diagram below.

The solid line shows a photograph of the string at a particular instant of

time. Two points on the string have been marked P and Q.
Which of the following correctly compares both the period of vibration of P
and Q and the average speed of P and Q?
Period

Average speed

A.

same

same

B.

same

different

C.

different

same

D.

different

different
(1)

16. The diagram below represents the fundamental (first harmonic) standing
wave of sound inside a pipe.

Which of the following correctly represents the displacement of the air at P

and Q?
(1)

17. Which of the following best describes the wave speed of a progressive wave
travelling through a medium?
A.

The maximum speed of the vibrating particles of the medium

B.

The average speed of the vibrating particles of the medium

C.

The speed of the medium through which the wave travels

D.

The speed of transfer of energy through the medium

(1)

18. Which of the following diagrams best shows the path of a ray of
monochromatic light through a glass prism in air?
(1)

19. Plane parallel wavefronts are incident on an obstacle. Which of the following
diagrams best shows the diffraction of the waves around the obstacle?
(1)

20. Which of the following is a correct description of the Doppler effect?

A.

Change in frequency of light due to motion of the source of light.

B.

Change in frequency of light due to relative motion between the source

of light and the observer.

C.

Change in observed frequency of light due to relative motion between

the source of light and the observer.

D.

Change in observed frequency of light due to change in velocity of the

source of light.
(1)

21. In a double-slit experiment using coherent light of wavelength , the central

bright fringe is observed on a screen at point O, as shown below.

At point P, the path difference between light arriving at P from the two slits
is 4.
Which of the following correctly describes the observed fringe pattern?

nature of fringe at P

number of dark
fringes between O
and P

A.

bright

B.

bright

C.

dark

D.

dark

4
(1)

22. A vibrating tuning fork is held above the top of a tube that is filled with
water. The water gradually runs out of the tube until a maximum loudness of
sound is heard.
Which of the following best shows the standing wave pattern set up in the
tube at this position?
(1)

23. A wave is travelling through a medium. The diagram shows the variation
with time t of the displacement d of a particle of the medium from t = 0 to t
= 25 ms.

Which of the following correctly gives the frequency and the amplitude of
the wave?
frequency / Hz

amplitude / cm

A.

2.0 10

2.0

B.

2.0 10

1.0

C.

50

2.0

D.

50

1.0
(1)

24. A plane wave approaches and passes through the boundary between two
media. The speed of the wave in medium 1 is greater than that in medium
2. Which one of the following diagrams correctly shows the wavefronts?
(1)

25. Waves of frequency f travel with speed c in air and enter a medium M of
refractive index 1.5. Which of the following correctly gives the frequency
and speed of the waves in the medium M?
frequency

speed

A.

B.

1.5c

C.

1.5f

D.

c
(1)

26. The light waves emitted by two coherent sources overlap and form an
observable interference pattern. The word coherent in this situation means
that
A.

the sources are point sources.

B.

there is a constant phase difference between the light waves emitted

by the sources.

C.

the sources emit light of the same frequency.

D.

the sources emit light of the same amplitude.

(1)

27. A police car, sounding its siren, is travelling at constant speed towards a
stationary observer. The sound emitted by the siren is of constant frequency.
The frequency of the sound as heard by the observer is higher than that
heard by the driver of the police car. The reason for this is that
A.

the wavefronts received by the observer are closer together than the
wavefronts received by the driver.

B.

the speed of the wavefronts is greater as measured by the observer

than by the driver.

C.

the speed of the wavefronts is less as measured by the observer than

by the driver.

D.

the wavefronts received by the observer are further apart than the
wavefronts received by the driver.
(1)

28. Plane wavefronts are incident on a barrier as shown below.

Which of the following best shows the shape of the wavefronts on the other
side of the barrier?
(1)

29. A string is held horizontally with one end attached to a fixed support. Two
pulses are created at the free end of the string. The pulses are moving
towards the fixed support as shown in the diagram below.

Which one of the following diagrams is a possible subsequent picture of the

string?
(1)

30. A water surface wave (ripple) is travelling to the right on the surface of a
lake. The wave has period T. The diagram below shows the surface of the
lake at a particular instant of time. A piece of cork is floating in the water in
the position shown.
Which is the correct position of the cork a time later?
(1)

31. A source of sound is placed near the open end of a cylindrical tube that lies
on a horizontal table. The tube has some powder sprinkled along its length.
The powder collects in piles along the length of the tube as shown below.

The distance between two consecutive piles of powder is d and the speed of
sound in the tube is v. The frequency of the source is
A.
B.
C.

dv.

D.

2dv.
(1)

32. The diagram below shows two long parallel plates that are oppositely
charged. A positive test charge +q is placed along the dotted line XY.

The charge +q is moved from X to Y. Which one of the following best shows
the variation with distance d from X of the magnitude F of the force on +q?
(1)

33. The distance S2N S1N is equal to

A.
B.
C.
D.
(1)

34. A stationary source emits sound of frequency f0. An observer is moving

towards the source at constant speed along the path indicated by the dotted
line. The observer passes very close to the source at time T.

Which one of the following graphs best shows the variation with time t of
the frequency f heard by the observer?
(1)

35. A well-insulated container is divided into two equal volumes by a wall. In one
half there is an ideal gas and the other is a vacuum as shown below.

The wall is now removed. Which one of the following correctly gives the
changes, if any, that take place in the internal energy and entropy of the
gas?
Internal energy

Entropy

A.

stays the same

stays the same

B.

stays the same

increases

C.

decreases

stays the same

D.

decreases

increases
(1)

36. Diagram 1 below shows the displacement of part of a medium through

which a wave is travelling at time t = 0. Diagram 2 shows the displacement
at a later time t = 4.0 s in which the wave has moved forward 10 cm. In this
time, the point P on the wave has moved from a crest through zero
displacement to a trough.

The wavelength of the wave is

A.

5.0 cm.

B.

10 cm.

C.

20 cm.

D.

40 cm.
(1)

37. Water waves of wavelength 2.0 m are produced by two sources S 1 and S2.
The sources vibrate in phase.

Point P is 1 m from S1 and 3 m from S2. S1 alone and S2 alone each produce
a wave of amplitude a at P. Which one of the following is the amplitude of
the resultant wave at point P when S1 and S2 are both emitting waves?
A.

2a

B.

C.
D.

Zero
(1)

38. A tube is filled with water and a vibrating tuning fork is held above its open
end.

The tap at the base of the tube is opened. As the water runs out, the sound
is loudest when the water level is a distance x below the top of the tube. A
second loud sound is heard when the water level is a distance y below the
top. Which one of the following is a correct expression for the wavelength
of the sound produced by the tuning fork?
A.

=y

B.

= 2x

C.

=yx

D.

= 2(y x)
(1)

39. A source S, moving at constant speed, emits a sound of constant frequency.

The source passes by a stationary observer O, as shown below.

Which one of the following shows the variation with time t of the frequency
f observed at O as the source S approaches and passes by the observer.
(1)

40. Which one of the following correctly describes the change, if any, in the
speed, wavelength and frequency of a light wave as it passes from air into
glass?
Speed

Wavelength

Frequency

A.

decreases

decreases

unchanged

B.

decreases

unchange
d

decreases

C.

unchanged

increases

decreases

D.

increases

increases

unchanged
(1)

41. Light is incident on an air-glass boundary as shown below.

Which one of the following is a correct statement of Snells law?

A.

sin P = constant sin R

B.

sin P = constant sin S

C.

sin Q = constant sin R

D.

sin Q = constant sin S

(1)

42. The diagram below shows a transverse wave on a string. The wave is
moving from right to left.

In the position shown, point X has zero displacement and point Y is at a

position of maximum displacement. Which one of the following gives the
subsequent direction of motion of point X and of point Y?
Point X

Point Y

A.

left

left

B.

upwards

upwards

C.

downwards

left

D.

downwards

upwards
(1)

43. Monochromatic light crosses the boundary between two media. Which of the
following quantities is always the same for the light in both media?
A.

Amplitude

B.

Frequency

C.

Speed

D.

Wavelength
(1)

44. A bat approaches an insect of wing span length d. The bat emits a sound
wave. The bat detects the insect if the sound is reflected from the insect.

The insect will not be located if

A.

the insects speed is less than the speed of the sound wave.

B.

the insects wing beat frequency is greater than the frequency of the
sound wave.

C.

the length d is much greater than the wavelength of the sound wave.

D.

the length d is much smaller than the wavelength of the sound wave.
(1)

45. A point source is moving at a constant speed in a straight-line towards the

right and emits sound waves of constant frequency. The speed of the source
is less than the speed of sound. Which of the diagrams correctly shows the
wavefronts emitted by the source?
(1)

46. The diagram below shows the arrangement for a Youngs double slit
experiment.

The function of the single slit is

A.

to direct the light towards S1 and S2.

B.

to ensure equal intensities of light at S 1 and S2.

C.

to produce coherent light at S1 and S2.

D.

to reduce the intensity of light at S1 and S2.

(1)

47. Sound of a constant frequency f0 is being emitted by a sound source. An

observer O travels in the direction shown at a speed of 0.1 v where v is the
speed of sound.

Which of the following gives the relationship between f0 and the frequency f
of observed sound?
A.

f = 1.1f0

B.

f0 < f < 1.1f0

C.

f = 0.9f0

D.

f0 > f > 0.9f0

(1)

48. A wave travels from one medium to another. Which of the following is true
about its frequency and wavelength?
Frequency

Wavelength

A.

No change

No change

B.

Change

No change

C.

No change

Change

D.

Change

Change
(1)

49. Which one of the following is correct for transfer of energy along a standing
wave and for amplitude of vibration of the standing wave?

Transfer of energy
alonga standing wave

Amplitude of
vibration ofthe
standing wave

A.

None

Constant amplitude

B.

None

Variable amplitude

C.

Energy is transferred

Constant amplitude

D.

Energy is transferred

Variable amplitude
(1)

50. In order that the light from two sources produces an observable interference
pattern, it is necessary that
A.

the sources must be point sources.

B.

the light emitted by the sources must be monochromatic.

C.

the light from each source must be of the same intensity.

D.

the light from the sources must be coherent.

(1)

51. The speed of sound in still air is c. A source of sound moves away from an
observer at speed v. What will be the speed of sound as measured by the
observer?
A.

B.

c+v

C.

cv

D.

vc
(1)

52. Two identical sources in a ripple tank generate waves of wavelength . The
interfering waves produce the wave pattern shown below.

Along which of the labelled lines is the path difference between the waves
from the sources equal to 1.5 ?
A.

B.

II

C.

III

D.

IV
(1)

53. The diagram below shows a pulse travelling along a rope from X to Y. The
end Y of the rope is tied to a fixed support.

When the pulse reaches end Y it will

A.

disappear.

B.

cause the end of the rope at Y to oscillate up and down.

C.

be reflected and be inverted.

D.

be reflected and not be inverted.

(1)

54. The graph below shows the variation of air pressure with distance along a
wave at one given time. The arrow indicates the direction of travel of the
wave.

The air pressure at point P is

A.

increasing.

B.

decreasing.

C.

constant.

D.

zero.
(1)

55. The diagram below shows two pulses on a string travelling toward each
other.

Which of the following diagrams best shows the shape of the string after the
pulses have passed through each other?
(1)

56. For a standing wave, all the particles between two successive nodes have
the same
A.

amplitude only.

B.

frequency only.

C.

amplitude and frequency.

D.

frequency and energy.

(1)

57. A source produces water waves of frequency 10 Hz. The graph shows the
variation with horizontal position of the vertical displacement of the surface
of water at one instant in time.

The speed of the water waves is

1

A.

0.20 cm s

B.

4.0 cm s

C.

10 cm s

D.

20 cm s

(1)

58. Two pipes P and Q are of the same length. Pipe P is closed at one end and
pipe Q is open at both ends. The fundamental frequency (first harmonic) of
the closed pipe P is 220 Hz.
The best estimate for the fundamental frequency of the open pipe Q is
A.

880 Hz.

B.

440 Hz.

C.

110 Hz.

D.

55 Hz.
(1)

59. This question is about wave phenomena.

(a)

The graph below shows the variation with time t of the displacement x
of one particle in a sound wave.

The speed of the wave is 380 m s .

(i)

Suggest, by marking the letter C on the t-axis of the graph above,

one time at which the particle could be at the centre of a
compression.
(1)

(ii)

Deduce the wavelength of the wave.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(b)

(i)

Outline the conditions necessary for the formation of a standing

(stationary) wave.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

A horizontal tube, closed at one end, has some fine powder

sprinkled along its length. A source S of sound is placed at the
open end of the tube, as shown below.

The frequency of the source S is varied. Explain why, at a

particular frequency, the powder is seen to form small equallyspaced heaps in the tube.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(iii) The mean separation of the heaps of powder in (b)(ii) is 9.3 cm

when the frequency of the source S is 1800 Hz. Calculate the

speed of sound in the tube.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(c)

The experiment in (b)(ii) is repeated on a day when the temperature of

the air in the tube is higher. The mean separation of the heaps is
observed to have increased for the same frequency of the source S.
Deduce qualitatively the effect, if any, of temperature rise on the speed
of the sound in the tube.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(2)

(d)

The diagram below shows wavefronts produced by two sources S 1 and

S2 of sound that are vibrating in phase.

The waves interfere constructively along the lines labelled A and B.

(i)

State what is meant by constructive interference.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(ii)

On the diagram above, draw another line, labelled C, along which

the waves interfere constructively.
(1)

(iii) On the diagram above, draw another line, labelled D, along which
the waves interfere destructively.
(1)
(Total 17 marks)

60. This question is about waves.

(a)

With reference to the direction of energy transfer through a medium,

distinguish between a transverse wave and a longitudinal wave.
.................................................................................................................
.....................
.................................................................................................................
.....................
.................................................................................................................
.....................
.................................................................................................................
.....................
.................................................................................................................
.....................
(3)

(b)

A wave is travelling along the surface of some shallow water in the xdirection. The graph shows the variation with time t of the
displacement d of a particle of water.

Use the graph to determine for the wave

(i)

the frequency,
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

the amplitude.
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(c)

The speed of the wave in (b) is 15 cm s . Deduce that the wavelength

of this wave is 2.0 cm.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(2)

(d)

The graph in (b) shows the displacement of a particle at the position x

= 0.
On the axes below, draw a graph to show the variation with distance x
along the water surface of the displacement d of the water surface at
time t = 0.070 s.
(3)

(e)

The wave encounters a shelf that divides the water into two separate
depths. The water to the right of the shelf is deeper than that to the
left of the shelf.

The angle between the wavefronts in the shallow water and the shelf is
1
30. The speed of the wave in the shallow water is 15 cm s and in the
1
deeper water is 20 cm s . For the wave in the deeper water, determine
the angle between the normal to the wavefronts and the shelf.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(3)
(Total 14 marks)

61. This question is about some properties of waves associated with the
principle of superposition.
Stationary (standing) waves and resonance
(a)

State two ways in which a standing wave differs from a continuous

wave.
1.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................

2.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(b)

State the principle of superposition as applied to waves.

.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(c)

A stretched string is fixed at one end. The other end is vibrated

continuously to produce a wave along the string. The wave is reflected
at the fixed end and as a result a standing wave is set up in the string.
The diagram below shows the displacement of the string at time t = 0.
The dotted line shows the equilibrium position of the string.

(i)

The period of oscillation of the string is T. On the diagrams below,

draw sketches of the displacement of the string at time and at
time

(2)

(ii)

Use your sketches in (i) to explain why the wave in the string
appears to be stationary.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(d)

Stationary waves are often associated with the phenomenon of

resonance.
(i)

Describe what is meant by resonance.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(ii)

On 19 September 1985 an earthquake occurred in Mexico City.

Many buildings that were about 80 m tall collapsed whereas
buildings that were taller or shorter than this remained
undamaged. Use the data below to suggest a reason for this.
period oscillation of an 80 m tall building
speed of earthquake waves

= 2.0 s
3

= 6.0 10 m s

average wavelength of the waves = 1.2 10 m

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)
(Total 13 marks)

62. Waves on a string

A travelling wave is created on a string. The graph below shows the
variation with time t of the displacement y of a particular point on the string.

The variation with distance x of the displacement y of the string at t = 0 is

shown below.

(a)

Use information from the graphs to calculate, for this wave,

(i)

the wavelength;
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(ii)

the frequency;
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(iii) the speed of the wave.

.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(b)

The wave is moving from left to right and has period T.

(i)

On graph 1, draw a labelled line to indicate the amplitude of the

wave.
(1)

(ii)

On graph 2, draw the displacement of the string at

(2)

(c)

One end of the string is attached to a wall. A student creates a single

pulse in the string that travels to the right as shown in the diagram
below.

(i)

In the space below, draw a diagram to show the shape and size of
the pulse after it has been reflected from the wall.
(2)

(ii)

By reference to Newtons third law, explain the nature of the

reflected pulse that you have drawn in (c)(i) above.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(d)

The free end of the string in (c) is now made to oscillate with frequency
f such that a standing wave is established on the string. The diagram
below illustrates the standing wave.

(i)

Explain, by reference to the principle of superposition, the

formation of a standing wave.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

(ii)

The length of the string is 3.0 m. Using your answer for the speed
of the wave in (a)(iii) calculate the frequency f.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(e)

A satellite orbits the Earth at a fixed height above the equator. Two
coherent radio transmitters on the equator emit radio waves of equal
amplitude as illustrated in the diagram below.

The signal that the satellite receives varies in intensity.

(i)

State what is meant by coherent sources.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(ii)

Suggest why the signal received by the satellite varies in intensity.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(iii) The transmitters have a separation of 160 m and emit waves of

wavelength 1.2 m. The signal received by the satellite varies in
intensity with a frequency of 3.0 Hz as it flies overhead. The speed
1
of the satellite is 7.7 km s .
Calculate the height of the satellite above the Earths surface.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)
(Total 22 marks)

63. This question is about sound waves

Production of sound waves
(a)

Distinguish, in terms of the propagation of energy, the difference

between a transverse travelling wave and a longitudinal travelling
wave.
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(b)

The diagram below shows an aluminium rod AB of length 1.50 m

hanging horizontally from two strings.

End A of the rod is hit gently with a hammer. As a result, a wave pulse
travels down the rod and is reflected from end B. The hammer remains
in contact with the rod until the pulse reflected from end B reaches A.
This pulse causes the hammer to rebound from the end of the rod.

(i)

Suggest, giving a reason, whether the wave pulse is longitudinal

or transverse.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(ii)

The hammer is in contact with end A of the rod for 6.00 10

Calculate the speed of the pulse in the rod.

s.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(iii) As a result of the rod being hit with the hammer, a sound is heard.
Suggest how this sound arises.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

(iv) The sound produced in the air consists of waves of many different
frequencies and intensities. The loudest sound corresponds to a
3
wave of frequency 1.67 10 Hz. Deduce that this frequency is
due to the rod vibrating in its fundamental (first harmonic) mode.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

Interference of sound waves

(c)

In the diagram below, S1 and S2 are two small loudspeakers. They are
connected to the same sound source such that they emit sound waves
of the same intensity and wavelength. An instrument for detecting
sound intensity is placed at point P such that S 1P = S2P.

The speaker S1 is moved slowly away from P along the line PS 1. As S1 is

moved, the sound detected at P decreases and increases in intensity.

(i)

Explain this observation.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

(ii)

In moving the source from S1 to point X, the intensity of the sound

at P changes from a maximum to a minimum. The distance S 1X =
0.082 m.
Calculate the value of the wavelength of the sound emitted by the
sources.
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(iii) S1 remains at the point X and the frequency f of the sound

emitted from both S1 and S2 is changed until a maximum of sound
intensity is detected at P. This occurs when f = 4100 Hz.
Estimate a value for the speed of sound.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)
(Total 20 marks)

64. Waves on a string

A travelling wave is created on a string. The graph below shows the
variation with time t of the displacement y of a particular point on the string.

The variation with distance x of the displacement y of the string at t = 0 is

shown below.

(a)

Use information from the graphs to calculate, for this wave,

(i)

the wavelength;
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(ii)

the frequency;
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(iii) the speed of the wave.

.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(b)

The wave is moving from left to right and has period T.

(i)

On graph 1, draw a labelled line to indicate the amplitude of the

wave.
(1)

(ii)

On graph 2, draw the displacement of the string at

(2)
(Total 7 marks)

65. Travelling waves

(a)

Graph 1 below shows the variation with time t of the displacement d of

a travelling (progressive) wave. Graph 2 shows the variation with
distance x along the same wave of its displacement d.

(i)

State what is meant by a travelling wave.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(ii)

Use the graphs to determine the amplitude, wavelength,

frequency and speed of the wave.
Amplitude: ......................................................................................
...........
(1)

Wavelength:
..............................................................................
...................
(1)

Frequency: ......................................................................................
...........
......................................................................................
...........
(1)

Speed:
......................................................................................
...........
......................................................................................
...........
(1)

Refraction of waves
(b)

The diagram below shows plane wavefronts incident on a boundary

between two media A and B.

The ratio
The angle between an incident wavefront and the normal to the
boundary is 50.
(i)

Calculate the angle between a refracted wavefront and the normal

to the boundary.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

(ii)

On the diagram above, construct three wavefronts to show the

refraction of the wave at the boundary.
(3)
(Total 11 marks)

66. The properties of sound waves

Reflection and Refraction
One method of finding the position of fish beneath a boat is to send out a
pulse of sound waves from the bottom of a boat and time how long the
pulse takes to return as shown below. The speed of sound waves in water is
1
1500 m s .

(a)

The time between the pulse leaving the emitter and returning to the
receiver is 12 ms. Calculate the distance from the bottom of the boat to
the fish.
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(2)

In order to find fish using this method, the effects of diffraction at the fish
need to be minimized.
(b)

(i)

The diagram below shows plane wavefronts incident on an

obstacle. Complete the diagram to show what is meant by
diffraction of the wavefronts.
(2)

(ii)

Explain why you would expect the effects of diffraction to be

negligible when sound of frequency 60 kHz is incident on a large
fish.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

The Doppler effect can be used to determine the speed of an object.

(c)

(i)

Explain what is meant by the Doppler effect.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(ii)

A train approaches and then passes by a stationary observer. The

train is moving with constant velocity and emits a sound of
constant frequency. The observer hears the frequency change
1
from 490 Hz to 410 Hz. The speed of sound in air is 340 m s .
Estimate the speed of the train.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................

.........................................................................................................
................
(4)
(Total 12 marks)

67. Waves
(a)

Distinguish, in terms of the propagation of energy, the difference

between a transverse travelling wave and a longitudinal travelling
wave.
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(b)

The diagram below shows an aluminium rod AB of length 1.50 m

hanging horizontally from two strings.

End A of the rod is hit gently with a hammer. As a result, a wave pulse
travels down the rod and is reflected from end B. The hammer remains
in contact with the rod until the pulse reflected from end B reaches A.
This pulse causes the hammer to rebound from the end of the rod.

(i)

Suggest, giving a reason , whether the wave pulse is longitudinal

or transverse.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(ii)

The hammer is in contact with end A of the rod for 6.00 10

Calculate the speed of the pulse in the rod.

s.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(iii) As a result of the rod being hit with the hammer, a sound is heard.
Suggest how this sound arises.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)
(Total 10 marks)

68. This question is about wave properties and interference.

The diagram below represents the direction of oscillation of a disturbance
that gives rise to a wave.

(a)

By redrawing the diagram in the spaces below, add arrows to show the
direction of wave energy transfer to illustrate the difference between
(i)

a transverse wave and

(1)

(ii)

a longitudinal wave.

(1)

A wave travels along a stretched string. The diagram below shows the
variation with distance along the string of the displacement of the string at a
particular instant in time. A small marker is attached to the string at the
point labelled M. The undisturbed position of the string is shown as a dotted
line.

(b)

On the diagram above

(i)

draw an arrow to indicate the direction in which the marker is

moving.
(1)

(ii)

indicate, with the letter A, the amplitude of the wave.

(1)

(iii) indicate, with the letter , the wavelength of the wave.

(1)

(iv) draw the displacement of the string a time later, where T is the
period of oscillation of the wave. Indicate, with the letter N, the
new position of the marker.
(2)

The wavelength of the wave is 5.0 cm and its speed is 10 cm s .

(c)

Determine
(i)

the frequency of the wave.

.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(ii)

how far the wave has moved in s.

(2)

Interference of waves
(d)

By reference to the principle of superposition, explain what is meant by

constructive interference.

.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(4)
(Total 14 marks)

69. This question is about the interference of waves.

(a)

State the principle of superposition.

.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(2)

A wire is stretched between two points A and B.

A standing wave is set up in the wire. This wave can be thought of as being
made up from the superposition of two waves, a wave X travelling from A to
B and a wave Y travelling from B to A. At one particular instant in time, the
displacement of the wire is as shown. A background grid is given for
reference and the equilibrium position of the wire is shown as a dotted line.

(b)

On the grids below, draw the displacement of the wire due to wave X
and wave Y.
(4)

The diagram below shows an arrangement (not to scale) for observing the
interference pattern produced by the superposition of two light waves.

S1 and S2 are two very narrow slits. The single slit S ensures that the light
leaving the slits S1 and S2 is coherent.

(c)

(i)

Define coherent.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(ii)

Explain why the slits S1 and S2 need to be very narrow.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)
(Total 9 marks)

70. This question is about waves.

(a)

With reference to the direction of energy transfer through a medium,

distinguish between a transverse wave and a longitudinal wave.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(3)

(b)

A wave is travelling along the surface of some shallow water in the xdirection. The graph shows the variation with time t of the
displacement d of a particle of water.

Use the graph to determine for the wave

(i)

the frequency,
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

the amplitude.
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(c)

The speed of the wave in (b) is 15 cm s . Deduce that the wavelength

of this wave is 2.0 cm.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(2)

(d)

The graph in (b) shows the displacement of a particle at the position x

= 0.
On the axes below, draw a graph to show the variation with distance x
along the water surface of the displacement d of the water surface at
time t = 0.070 s.
(3)

(e)

The wave encounters a shelf that divides the water into two separate
depths. The water to the right of the shelf is deeper than that to the
left of the shelf.

The angle between the wavefronts in the shallow water and the shelf is
1
30. The speed of the wave in the shallow water is 15 cm s and in the
1
deeper water is 20 cm s . For the wave in the deeper water, determine
the angle between the normal to the wavefronts and the shelf.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(3)
(Total 14 marks)

71. This question is about earthquake waves.

(a)

(i)

Light is emitted from a candle flame. Explain why, in this

situation, it is correct to refer to the speed of the emitted light,
rather than its velocity.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

By reference to displacement, describe the difference between a

longitudinal wave and a transverse wave.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)

The centre of an earthquake produces both longitudinal waves (P waves)

and transverse waves (S waves). The graph below shows the variation with
time t of the distance d moved by the two types of wave.

(b)

Use the graph to determine the speed of

(i)

the P waves.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(ii)

the S waves.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

The waves from an earthquake close to the Earths surface are detected at
three laboratories L1, L2 and L3. The laboratories are at the corners of a
triangle so that each is separated from the others by a distance of 900 km,
as shown in the diagram below.

The records of the variation with time of the vibrations produced by the
earthquake as detected at the three laboratories are shown below. All three
records were started at the same time.

On each record, one pulse is made by the S wave and the other by the P
wave. The separation of the two pulses is referred to as the S-P interval.

(c)

(i)

On the trace produced by laboratory L2, identify, by reference to

your answers in (b), the pulse due to the P wave (label the pulse
P).
(1)

(ii)

Using evidence from the records of the earthquake, state which

laboratory was closest to the site of the earthquake.
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(iii) State three separate pieces of evidence for your statement in (c)
(ii).
1

.................................................................................................
................
.................................................................................................
................

.................................................................................................
................
.................................................................................................
................

.................................................................................................
................
.................................................................................................
................
(3)

(iv) The S-P intervals are 68 s, 42 s and 27 s for laboratories L 1, L2 and

L3 respectively. Use the graph, or otherwise, to determine the
distance of the earthquake from each laboratory. Explain your
working.
Distance from

L1 = ......................km

.........................................................................................................
..................
Distance from

L2 = ......................km

.........................................................................................................
..................
Distance from

L3 = ......................km

.........................................................................................................
..................
(4)

(v)

Mark on the diagram a possible site of the earthquake.

(1)

There is a tall building near to the site of the earthquake, as illustrated

below.

The base of the building vibrates horizontally due to the earthquake.

(d)

(i)

On the diagram, draw the fundamental mode of vibration of the

building caused by these vibrations.
(1)

The building is of height 280 m and the mean speed of waves in the
3
1
structure of the building is 3.4 10 ms .
(ii)

Explain quantitatively why earthquake waves of frequency about

6 Hz are likely to be very destructive.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)
(Total 21 marks)

72. This question is about sound waves.

In order to demonstrate two-source interference of sound waves, two
loudspeakers are connected to the same output of a signal generator. The
loudspeakers are fixed 4.0 m apart.
In the diagram below, the line AB is parallel to the loudspeakers and at a
distance of 10.0 m from the loudspeakers. Point P is midway between the
loudspeakers.

Katerina walks along the line AB carrying a microphone connected to a

detector. She registers a sound that alternates in intensity from loud to
quiet.
(a)

Describe the conditions necessary for a sound of minimum intensity to

be registered at Q.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(3)

As Katerina runs along the line AB she counts the number of loud sounds
registered in a given time. The frequency of the sound emitted by both
1
loudspeakers is 360 Hz and the speed of sound in air is 330 ms .
(b)

Estimate the speed at which she is running if the maximum sounds

occur with a frequency of about 2 Hz.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(6)
(Total 9 marks)

73. This question is about the Doppler effect.

The diagram below shows wavefronts produced by a stationary wave source
S. The spacing of the wavefronts is equal to the wavelength of the waves.
The wavefronts travel with speed V.

(a)

The source S now moves to the right with speed V. In the space below,
draw four successive wavefronts to show the pattern of waves
produced by the moving source.

(3)

(b)

Derive the Doppler formula for the observed frequency f0 of a sound

source, as heard by a stationary observer, when the source approaches
the stationary observer with speed v. The speed of sound is V and the
frequency of the sound emitted by the source is f.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(3)

The Sun rotates about its centre. The light from one edge of the Sun, as
seen by a stationary observer, shows a Doppler shift of 0.004 nm for light of
wavelength 600.000 nm.
(c)

Assuming that the Doppler formula for sound may be used for light,
estimate the linear speed of a point on the surface of the Sun due to its
rotation.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(3)
(Total 9 marks)

74. Wave properties

(a)

By reference to the energy of a travelling wave, state what is meant by

(i)

a ray.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(ii)

wave speed.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(b)

The graph below shows the variation with time t of the displacement xA
of wave A as it passes through a point P.

The graph below shows the variation with time t of the displacement xB
of wave B as it passes through point P.

(i)

Calculate the frequency of the waves.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(ii)

The waves pass simultaneously through point P. Use the graphs to

determine the resultant displacement at point P of the two waves
at time t = 1.0 ms and at time t = 8.0 ms.
At t = 1.0 ms:
...................................................................................
............
...................................................................................
............
At t = 8.0 ms:
...................................................................................
............
...................................................................................
............
(3)
(Total 6 marks)

75. X-ray spectra

The graph shows the variation with wavelength of the relative intensity of
an X-ray spectrum produced when electrons strike a metal target.

The spectrum consists of a continuous spectrum and a line spectrum (the

spikes).
(a)

(i)

State why there is a sharp cut-off at the short-wavelength end of

the spectrum.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(ii)

Explain why the wavelengths of the line spectrum are

characteristic of the target element.
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

(b)

In 1913, Moseley discovered that the frequency f of a line in the

spectrum is related to the proton number (atomic number) Z of the
target atoms by the expression
2

f = a(Z b) ,
where a and b are constants.
One line in the spectrum produced by a certain metal target has a
15
wavelength of 0.154 nm. For this line, a = 2.50 10 Hz and b = 1.00.
Calculate the proton number of the target metal.
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(c)

Determine the minimum potential difference through which electrons in

the X-ray tube must be accelerated so that the line of wavelength
0.154 nm may be observed in the spectrum.
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)
(Total 10 marks)

76. This question is about waves and wave motion.

(a)

(i)

Define what is meant by the speed of a wave.

.........................................................................................................

..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

Light is emitted from a candle flame. Explain why, in this

situation, it is correct to refer to the speed of the emitted light,
rather than its velocity.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(b)

(i)

Define, by reference to wave motion, what is meant by

displacement.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

By reference to displacement, describe the difference between a

longitudinal wave and a transverse wave.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)

The centre of an earthquake produces both longitudinal waves (P waves)

and transverse waves (S waves). The graph below shows the variation with
time t of the distance d moved by the two types of wave.

(c)

Use the graph to determine the speed of

(i)

the P waves.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(ii)

the S waves.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

The waves from an earthquake close to the Earths surface are detected at
three laboratories L1, L2 and L3. The laboratories are at the corners of a
triangle so that each is separated from the others by a distance of 900 km,
as shown in the diagram below.

The records of the variation with time of the vibrations produced by the
earthquake as detected at the three laboratories are shown below. All three
records were started at the same time.

On each record, one pulse is made by the S wave and the other by the P
wave. The separation of the two pulses is referred to as the S-P interval.

(d)

(i)

On the trace produced by laboratory L2, identify, by reference to

your answers in (c), the pulse due to the P wave (label the pulse
P).
(1)

(ii)

Using evidence from the records of the earthquake, state which

laboratory was closest to the site of the earthquake.
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(iii) State three separate pieces of evidence for your statement in (d)
(ii).
(3)

1.

.................................................................................................
................
.................................................................................................
................

2.

.................................................................................................
................
.................................................................................................
................

3.

.................................................................................................
................
.................................................................................................
................

(iv) The S-P intervals are 68 s, 42 s and 27 s for laboratories L 1, L2 and

L3 respectively. Use the graph, or otherwise, to determine the
distance of the earthquake from each laboratory. Explain your
working.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
Distance from L1 =

......................km

.........................................................................................................
..................
Distance from L2 =

......................km

.........................................................................................................
..................
Distance from L3 =

......................km

.........................................................................................................
..................
(4)

(v)

Mark on the diagram a possible site of the earthquake.

(1)

There is a tall building near to the site of the earthquake, as illustrated

below.

The base of the building vibrates horizontally due to the earthquake.

(e)

(i)

On the diagram above, draw the fundamental mode of vibration of

the building caused by these vibrations.
(1)

The building is of height 280 m and the mean speed of waves in the
3
1
structure of the building is 3.4 10 ms .
(ii)

Explain quantitatively why earthquake waves of frequency about

6 Hz are likely to be very destructive.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)
(Total 25 marks)

77. This question is about wave phenomena and the particle nature of light.
Travelling waves
(a)

Graph 1 below shows the variation with time t of the displacement d of

a travelling (progressive) wave. Graph 2 shows the variation with
distance x along the same wave of its displacement d.

(i)

State what is meant by a travelling wave.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(1)

(ii)

Use the graphs to determine the amplitude, wavelength,

frequency and speed of the wave.
Amplitude: ......................................................................................
...........
(1)

Wavelength:
..............................................................................
...................
(1)

Frequency: ......................................................................................
...........
......................................................................................
...........
(1)

Speed:
......................................................................................
...........
......................................................................................
...........
(1)

Refraction of waves
(b)

The diagram below shows plane wavefronts incident on a boundary

between two media A and B.

The ratio
The angle between an incident wavefront and the normal to the
boundary is 50.

(i)

Calculate the angle between a refracted wavefront and the normal

to the boundary.
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................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

(ii)

On the diagram above, construct three wavefronts to show the

refraction of the wave at the boundary.
(3)

Interference of waves
(c)

State two conditions necessary to produce observable interference

between light from two sources.
1.

.........................................................................................................
................

2.

.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(d)

A Youngs double slit experiment for red light is set up as shown below.

An interference pattern of light and dark fringes is observed on the

screen.

(i)

The red filter is now replaced by a blue filter. State and explain the
change in appearance, other than change of colour, of the fringes
on the screen.
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................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(ii)

The filter in (i) is removed. State and explain the appearance of

the central maximum fringe and also of fringes that are away
from this central position.
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................
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(4)

Particle nature of light

(e)

The photo-electric effect cannot be explained on the basis of a wave

theory of electromagnetic radiation. State two experimental
observations, other than the existence of a threshold frequency, that
led to this conclusion.
1.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................

2.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................

(2)

(f)

Monochromatic light is incident on a metal surface in a photo-cell as

shown below.

The metal surface has work function 2.4 eV and the threshold
wavelength for light incident on the surface is S. The current in the
photo-cell is measured using a microammeter.
Calculate the threshold wavelength S.
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(g)

Light of wavelength and intensity I is incident on the metal surface in

(f). (Intensity is the light power incident per unit area.) The current in
the photo-cell is iP.
State and explain the effect on the current iP in the photo-cell for light
incident on the surface
(i)

of wavelength and intensity 2I;

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................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

(ii)

of wavelength less than and intensity I.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................

................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)
(Total 30 marks)

78. This question is about waves and wave properties.

Travelling and standing (stationary) waves
(a)

State two differences between a travelling wave and a standing

(stationary) wave.
1.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................

2.

.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)

(b)

In the scale diagram below, plane wavefronts travel from medium 1 to

medium 2 across the boundary AB.

State and explain in which medium the wavefronts have the greater
speed.
.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(c)

By taking measurements from the diagram, determine the ratio

.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(d)

To demonstrate the production of a standing wave, Samantha attaches

the end B of a length AB of rubber tubing to a rigid support. She holds
the other end A of the tubing, pulls on it slightly and then shakes the
end A in a direction at right angles to AB. At a certain frequency of
shaking, the tubing is seen to form the standing wave pattern shown
below.

Explain how this pattern is formed.

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(5)

(e)

The speed v with which energy is propagated in the tubing by a

travelling wave depends on the tension T in the tubing. The
relationship between these quantities is

where k is a constant.
In an experiment to verify this relationship, the fundamental (first
harmonic) frequency f was measured for different values of tension T.
(i)

Explain how the results of this experiment, represented

graphically, can be used to verify the relationship
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.........................................................................................................
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.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(4)

(ii)

In the experiment, the length of the tubing was kept constant at

2.4 m. The fundamental frequency for a tension of 9.0 N in the
tubing was 1.8 Hz. Calculate the numerical value of the constant
k.
.........................................................................................................
................
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................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(3)

The Doppler effect

(f)

A source S emits sound waves at constant frequency. In the diagram

below, S is moving at constant speed in the direction shown, along a
straight-line between two stationary observers A and B.

(i)

Draw, on the above diagram, three wavefronts representing the

waves emitted by S.
(2)

(ii)

Use your sketch to explain any difference in the frequency of the

sound as heard by observer A and by observer B.
.........................................................................................................
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.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
.........................................................................................................
................
(2)
(Total 24 marks)

79. This question is about waves and wave properties.

(a)

(i)

Describe what is meant by a continuous travelling wave.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

With reference to your answer in (a)(i), state what is meant by the

speed of a travelling wave.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................

..................
(1)

(b)

Define, for a wave,

(i)

frequency;
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(ii)

wavelength.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

A tube that is open at both ends is placed in a deep tank of water, as shown
below.

A tuning fork of frequency 256 Hz is sounded continuously above the tube.

The tube is slowly raised out of the water and, at one position of the tube, a
maximum loudness of sound is heard.
(c)

(i)

Explain the formation of a standing wave in the tube.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

The tube is raised a further small distance. Explain, by reference

to resonance, why the loudness of the sound changes.
.........................................................................................................
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.........................................................................................................
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(4)

(iii) The tube is gradually raised from a position of maximum loudness

until the next position of maximum loudness is reached. The
length of the tube above the water surface is increased by 65.0
cm. Calculate the speed of sound in the tube.
.........................................................................................................
..................

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

A sound wave is incident on the ear of a person. The pressure variation of

the sound wave causes a force F to be exerted on a moveable part of the
ear called the eardrum. The variation of the displacement x of the eardrum
caused by the force F is shown below.

(d)

The eardrum has an area of 30 mm . Calculate the pressure, in pascal,

2
exerted on the eardrum for a displacement x of 1.0 10 mm.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(2)

(e)

(i)

Calculate the energy required to cause the displacement to

2
change from x = 0 to x = +1.5 10 mm.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................

(3)

The sound wave causing a maximum displacement of the eardrum of 1.5

2
10 mm has frequency 1000 Hz.
(ii)

Deduce that the energy causing the displacement in (e)(i) is

delivered in a time of 0.25 ms. Also, determine the mean power of
the sound wave to cause this displacement.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(4)

(iii) Suggest the form of energy into which the energy of the sound
wave has been transformed at the eardrum.
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

In an experiment to measure the speed of sound, two coherent sources S 1

and S2 produce sound waves of frequency 1700 Hz. A sound detector is
moved along a line AB, parallel to S1S2 as shown below.

When the detector is at P, such that S1P = S2P, maximum loudness of sound
is detected. As the detector is moved along AB, regions of minimum and
maximum loudness are detected. Point X is the third position of minimum
loudness from P. The distance (S2X S1X) is 0.50 m.
(f)

(i)

Determine the speed of the sound.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(ii)

At X, no sound is detected. The loudness of the sound produced

by S1 alone is then reduced. State and explain the effect of this
change on the loudness of sound heard at X and at P.
at X:
........................................................................................
...................
.............................................................................................
..............
.............................................................................................
..............
at P:
........................................................................................
...................
.............................................................................................
..............
.............................................................................................
..............
(4)
(Total 30 marks)

80. This question is about waves and wave properties.

(a)

By making reference to waves, distinguish between a ray and a

wavefront.
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....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
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(3)

The diagram below shows three wavefronts incident on a boundary between

medium I and medium R. Wavefront CD is shown crossing the boundary.
Wavefront EF is incomplete.

(b)

(i)

On the diagram above, draw a line to complete the wavefront EF.

(1)

(ii)

Explain in which medium, I or R, the wave has the higher speed.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(iii) By taking appropriate measurements from the diagram,

determine the ratio of the speeds of the wave travelling from
medium I to medium R.
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..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

The graph below shows the variation with time t of the velocity v of one
particle of the medium through which the wave is travelling.

(c)

(i)

Explain how it can be deduced from the graph that the particle is
oscillating.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

Determine the frequency of oscillation of the particle.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(iii) Mark on the graph with the letter M one time at which the particle
is at maximum displacement.
(1)

(iv) Estimate the area between the curve and the x-axis from the time
t = 0 to the time t = 1.5 ms.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(v)

Suggest what the area in c (iv) represents.

.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)
(Total 17 marks)

81. This question is about waves and wave properties.

The diagram below shows three wavefronts incident on a boundary between
medium I and medium R. Wavefront CD is shown crossing the boundary.
Wavefront EF is incomplete.

(a)

(i)

On the diagram above, draw a line to complete the wavefront EF.

(1)

(ii)

Explain in which medium, I or R, the wave has the higher speed.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(3)

The graph below shows the variation with time t of the velocity v of one
particle of the medium through which the wave is travelling.

(b)

(i)

Explain how it can be deduced from the graph that the particle is
oscillating.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(ii)

Determine the frequency of oscillation of the particle.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(iii) Mark on the graph with the letter M one time at which the particle
is at maximum displacement.
(1)

(iv) Estimate the area between the curve and the x-axis from the time
t = 0 to the time t = 1.5 ms.
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(v)

Suggest what the area in b (iv) represents.

.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(c)

(i)

State the principle of superposition.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)

Two loudspeakers S1 and S2 are connected to the same output of a

frequency generator and are placed in a large room as shown below.

Sound waves of wavelength 40 cm and amplitude A are emitted by both

loudspeakers.

M is a point distance 550 cm from both S 1 and S2. Point P is a distance 560
cm from S1 and 580 cm from S2.

(ii)

State and explain what happens to the loudness of the sound

detected by a microphone when the microphone is moved from
point M to point P.
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(4)

(iii) Referring to the diagram above, the amplitude of the wave

emitted by S1 is now increased to 2A. The wave emitted by S2 is
unchanged. Deduce what change, if any, occurs in the loudness of
the sound at point M and at point P when this change in amplitude
is made.
at point M:
.........................................................................................
.............
.........................................................................................
.............
at point P:
.........................................................................................
.............
.........................................................................................
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(4)

(iv) The loudspeakers are now replaced with two monochromatic light
sources. State the reason why bright and dark fringes are not
observed along the line PM.
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

Waves of frequency f and speed c are emitted by a stationary source of

sound. An observer moves along a straight line towards the source at a

constant speed v.

(d)

State, in terms of f, c and v, an expression for

(i)

the wavelength of the sound detected by the observer.

.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(ii)

the apparent speed of the wave as measured by the observer.

.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)
(Total 25 marks)

82. This question is about waves and wave motion.

(a)

Describe, by reference to the propagation of energy, what is meant by

a transverse wave.
Transverse wave

(2)

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.................................................................................................................
....................

(b)

State one example, other than a wave on a string, of a transverse

wave.
.................................................................................................................
....................
(1)

A transverse wave is travelling along a string that is under tension. The

diagram below shows the displacement of part of the string at time t = 0.
The dotted line shows the position of the string when there is no wave
travelling along it.

(c)

On the diagram above, draw lines to identify for this wave

(i)

the amplitude (label this A);

(1)

(ii)

the wavelength (label this ).

(1)

(d)

The period of the wave is 1.2 10

1
wave is 250 m s .

s. Deduce that the speed of the

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.................................................................................................................
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(2)

(e)

Using the axes below, draw the displacement of the string when t = 3.0
4
10 s. (The displacement of the string at t = 0 is shown as a dotted
line.)
(3)
(Total 10 marks)

83. This question is about diffraction.

Plane wavefronts of monochromatic light of wavelength are incident on a
rectangular slit of width b. After passing through the slit, the light is brought
to a focus on a screen distance D from the slit as shown below. The width of
the slit is comparable to the wavelength of the incident light and b D. The
point P on the screen is opposite the centre of the slit.

The sketch graph below shows that the variation with angle of the
intensity of the light on the screen.

(a)

Explain qualitatively, this intensity distribution.

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.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
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(3)

(b)

The angle = is the angular half-width of the central maximum of the

intensity distribution and is given by the expression =Derive an
expression in terms of D, and b for the half-width d of the central
maximum.
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(2)

(c)

The single slit is replaced by two rectangular slits of width b. The

distance between the centre of the slits is equal to 2b.
On the axes below, draw a sketch of the intensity distribution on the
screen. (The intensity distribution of a single slit is shown by the dotted
line.)
(2)
(Total 7 marks)

84. A wedge shaped film of air is made by separating two thin, flat glass plates
by a spacer.

It is arranged for light from a monochromatic source to be incident on the

plates by reflection from another glass plate P. The light reflected from the
wedge is viewed from above as shown in the diagram. A system of equally
spaced, parallel fringes is observed. (The diagram is not to scale.)
(a)

State what happens to the phase of the light waves reflected from the
upper surface of the plate labelled A in the diagram.
.................................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(b)

The wavelength of the light is 560 nm. Calculate by how much the
width of the wedge changes between one bright fringe and the next
bright fringe.
.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
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(2)
(Total 3 marks)

85. This question is about resolution.

(a)

State the Rayleigh criterion for the images of two point sources to be
just resolved.
.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
..................
(2)

A man is walking along a straight path at night towards two light sources as

shown below.
not drawn to scale

When the man is 150 m from the sources, the images of the two sources are
just resolved by his eye. The wavelength of the light from each source is 590
nm and the diameter of the aperture of his eye is 5.0 mm.
(b)

Estimate the distance between the two sources.

.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
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(3)
(Total 5 marks)

86. This question is about waves.

(a)

In the scale diagram below, plane wavefronts travel from medium 1 to

medium 2 across the boundary AB.

State and explain in which medium the wavefronts have the greater
speed.
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)

(b)

By taking measurements from the diagram, determine the ratio

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..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
.................................................................................................................
..................
(3)
(Total 6 marks)

87. This question is about atomic and nuclear structure and fundamental forces.
In a nuclear model of the atom, most of the atom is regarded as empty
space. A tiny nucleus is surrounded by a number of electrons.
(a)

Outline one piece of experimental evidence that supports this nuclear

model of the atom.
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(3)

(b)

Explain why the protons in a nucleus do not fly apart from each other.
.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
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.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
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(2)

(c)

29

In total, there are approximately 10 electrons in the atoms making up

a person. Estimate the electrostatic force of repulsion between two
people standing 100 m apart as a result of these electrons.
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....................
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.................................................................................................................
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(4)

(d)

Estimate the gravitational force of attraction between two people

standing 100 m apart.
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
(2)

(e)

Explain why two people standing 100 m apart would not feel either of
the forces that you have calculated in parts (c) and (d).
.................................................................................................................
....................

.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
....................
.................................................................................................................
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(2)
(Total 13 marks)

88. This question is about sound waves.

A sound wave of frequency 660 Hz passes through air. The variation of
particle displacement with distance along the wave at one instant of time is
shown below.

(a)

State whether this wave is an example of a longitudinal or a transverse

wave.
.................................................................................................................
....................
(1)

(b)

Using data from the above graph, deduce for this sound wave,
(i)

the wavelength.
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(ii)

the amplitude.
.........................................................................................................
..................
(1)

(iii) the speed.

.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
.........................................................................................................
..................
(2)
(Total 5 marks)

89. A person is walking along one side of a building and a car is driving along
another side of the building.

The person can hear the car approach but cannot see it. This is explained by
the fact that sound waves
A.

travel more slowly than light waves.

B.

are diffracted more at the corner of the building than light waves.

C.

are refracted more at the corner of the building than light waves.

D.

are longitudinal waves.

(1)

90. Which one of the following diagrams best represents wavefronts produced
by a source of sound of constant frequency as it moves at constant speed
towards a stationary observer at O?
(1)

91. Sound waves move faster in warm air than in cold air. The diagram below
shows plane waves in cold air moving towards a boundary with warm air.

Which of the arrows shows the possible direction of waves after reaching the
boundary?
A.

B.

II

C.

III

D.

IV
(1)

92. A string is stretched between two fixed points. The string is plucked at its
centre and is seen to vibrate with frequency f as shown below.

Which one of the following expressions gives the frequencies of other

possible modes of vibration that have an antinode at the centre? The
number n in each expression is an integer.
A.

nf

B.

(2n 1)f

C.

(n 1)f

D.

(n + 1)f
(1)

93. What change, if any, occurs in the wavelength and frequency of a light wave
as it crosses a boundary from air into glass?
Wavelength

Frequency

A.

Decreases

Decreases

B.

Decreases

Unchanged

C.

Increases

Increases

D.

Increases

Unchanged
(1)

94. The wavelength of a progressive transverse wave is defined as

A.

the distance between a crest and its neighbouring trough.

B.

the distance between any two crests of the wave.

C.

the distance moved by a wavefront during one oscillation of the source.

D.

the distance moved by a particle in the wave during one oscillation of

the source.
(1)

95. Light from a double slit arrangement produces bright and dark fringes on a
screen in the region near point P, as indicated below.

The light from the two slits has equal amplitudes on reaching point P.

Which one of the following gives the change, if any, in the appearance of
the bright and the dark fringes when the amplitude of the light wave from
one slit is reduced?

Bright fringes

Dark fringes

A.

Remains the same

Remains the same

B.

Becomes less bright

Remains the same

C.

Becomes less bright

Becomes more bright

D.

Remains the same

Becomes more bright

(1)

96. The waves from two light sources meet at a point. Which condition is
essential for interference to be observed?
A.

Constant phase difference between the waves

B.

Equal amplitude of the waves

C.

Equal frequency of the waves

D.

Equal intensities of the waves

(1)

97. Graph P shows how the displacement at one point in a wave varies with
time.
Graph Q shows how the displacement in the same wave varies with distance
along the wave at one particular time.

Which one of the following expressions gives the speed of the wave?
A.
B.
C.
D.
(1)

98. Two lamps producing light of the same colour are placed close to one
another. A two source interference pattern is not observed because
A.

the lamps do not emit light of a single frequency.

B.

the phase difference between the light from the lamps is continually
changing.

C.

the intensity of the light emitted by the lamps is not the same.

D.

the two lamps are not exact point sources.

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99. In order that the interference between the waves emitted by two light
sources can be observed, it is essential that the sources must emit waves
that
A.

have the same amplitude.

B.

are in phase.

C.

have the same colour.

D.

have a constant phase difference between them.

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100. The variation with time t of the separate displacements d of a point in a

medium due to two waves is shown below.

The waves are superposed. Which of the following diagrams shows the
variation with time t of the resultant displacement d of the point in the
medium?
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101. Which of the following diagrams best illustrates the diffraction of waves by
an obstacle?
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102. The two graphs show the variation with time of the individual displacements
of two waves as they pass through the same point.

The displacement of the resultant wave at the point at time T is equal to

A.

x1 + x2.

B.

x1 x2.

C.

A1 + A2.

D.

A1 A2.

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103. A source S produces sound waves of frequency f and is moving along a

straight line as shown below.

Which observer I, II, III or IV could hear a sound of frequency f when the
source is in the position shown?
A.

B.

II

C.

III

D.

IV
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104. The diagram below shows two wave pulses moving towards one another.

Which one of the following diagrams shows the resultant pulse when the
two pulses are superposed?
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105. The diagram shows the variation with distance x along a wave with its
displacement d.
The wave is travelling in the direction shown.

The period of the wave is T. Which one of the following diagrams shows the
displacement of the wave at later?
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106. On which one of the following graphs is the wavelength and the amplitude
a of a wave correctly represented?
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107. A source of sound emits waves of wavelength , period T and speed v when
at rest. The source moves away from a stationary observer at speed V,
relative to the observer. The wavelength of the sound waves, as measured
by the observer is
A.

+ vT.

B.

vT.

C.

+VT.

D.

VT.
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108. Standing waves in an open pipe come about as a result of

A.

reflection and superposition.

B.

reflection and diffraction.

C.

superposition and diffraction.

D.

reflection and refraction.

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109. When a wave crosses the boundary between two media, which one of the
following properties of the wave does not change?
A.

Amplitude

B.

Wavelength

C.

Frequency

D.

Speed
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110. Two identical triangular pulses of amplitude X travel toward each other along
a string. At the instant shown on the diagram below, point M is midway
between the two pulses.

The amplitude of the disturbance in the string as the pulses move through M
is
A.

2X.

B.

X.

C.
D.

0.
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111. A source of sound moves directly towards a stationary observer. The

frequency of the sound detected by the observer is different from the source
frequency because
A.

the loudness of the sound increases as the source moves towards the
observer.

B.

the apparent wavelength of the sound is longer.

C.

the speed of sound relative to the observer is increased.

D.

the apparent wavelength of the sound is shorter.

(1)

112. A pipe, open at both ends, has a length L. The speed of sound in the air in
the pipe is v. The frequency of vibration of the fundamental (first harmonic)
standing wave that can be set up in the pipe is
A.

B.

C.

D.

.
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113. Jeremy is walking alongside a building and is approaching a road junction. A

fire engine is sounding its siren and approaching the road along which
Jeremy is walking.

Jeremy cannot see the fire engine but he can hear the siren. This is due
mainly to
A.

reflection.

B.

refraction.

C.

the Doppler effect.

D.

diffraction.
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114. Water waves at the surface of a pond pass a floating log of length L. The log
is at rest relative to the bank. The diagram shows wave crests at one
instant.

The number of crests passing the log per unit time is N. The speed of the
water waves relative to the log at rest is
A.

(N 1).

B.

(N 1).

C.

(N).

D.

(N).
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115. Two particles X and Y are situated a distance apart on a stationary wave of
wavelength . The variation with time t of the displacement dx of X is shown
below.

Which one of the following correctly shows the variation with time t of the
displacement dY of particle Y?
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116. Which diagram best shows diffraction of plane wavefronts at a single slit?
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117. The speed of a wave is defined as

A.

the speed at which the particles of the wave vibrate.

B.

the speed of the medium through which the wave passes.

C.

the speed of transfer of the energy of the wave.

D.

the speed at which the vibrations of the wave are produced.

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118. A pulse is sent down a string fixed at one end.

Which one of the following diagrams best represents the reflected pulse?
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119. A sound emitting source moves along a straight line with speed v relative to
an observer at rest.

The speed of sound relative to the medium is c. The observer measures the
speed of sound emitted by the source as
A.

c.

B.

c + v.

C.

c v.

D.

v c.
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120. The diagram below shows ocean waves incident on a stone barrier
protecting boats anchored behind it.

The boats could still be at risk of damage by waves mainly as a result of

A.

refraction.

B.

standing waves.

C.

diffraction.

D.

reflection.
(1)