Physics

CHAPTER | 15 |
Waves
Syllabus
ӽ Wave motion: Introduction; Characteristics of wave motion, types of waves; Terms involved in wave
motion; Displacement relation for a progressive wave; Characteristics of progressive wave; Relationship
between phase difference, path difference, and time difference; Speed of a travelling wave; Newton’s formula;
Laplace’s correction; Factors affecting velocity of sound in gaseous medium.
ӽ Reflection of waves: Introduction; Echo; Reverberation.
ӽ Superposition of waves: Principle of superposition of waves; Interference of waves; Stationary waves-
Types of stationary waves, condition for stationary waves, characteristics of stationary waves, terms related
to the application of stationary waves; Vibrations in a stretched string of length fixed at both ends; Organ
pipe; End correction; Formation of beats-Conditions for beat formation, applications of beats; Characteristics
of musical sound.
ӽ Doppler’s effect: Introduction; Effect of wind velocity on Doppler’s effect in sound; Applications of
Doppler’s effect.

MIND MAP

WAVE MECHANICS

Wave Motion Reflection of Wave Superposition of Wave Doppler’s Effect

(Information and (When waves hit an (When numbers of wave (Change in apparent
energy propagate in object and bounce meet simultaneously at a frequency of sound
the form of signal or off it) point, the net displacement at due to relative motion
disturbances without a given time is the algebraic between source of sound
actual transfer of sum of displacement due and listener)
matter) to each wave at that time) Y
    v=
y = y1 + y2 + .... + yn ρ

Mind Map 1: Wave Mechanics at a Glance

 Waves Chapter | 15 |

WAVE MOTION

Electromagnetic Wave Mechanical Wave Matter Wave

(do not require a medium to (require a medium to propagate) (Waves associated with particles
propagate) like electrons, protons, neutrons,
atoms, molecules)

Longitudinal wave
Transverse wave (Particles oscillate
(Particles oscillate perpendicular to along the direction of
direction of wave propagation) wave propagation)

Speed in a stretched string

In solids In gas In fluid
T
v= Y γP B
µ v= v= v=
ρ ρ ρ

Mind Map 2: Wave Motion

SUPERPOSITION OF WAVE (When number

of waves meet simultaneously at a point, the net
displacement at a given time is the algebraic sum
of displacement due to each wave at that time)
   
y = y1 + y2 + .... + yn

Beats
Interference of Wave (when two waves having slightly varying
(when two waves having same frequency frequencies travel with same speed along same
travel with same speed along same direction in a specific medium) f = f − f
1 2
direction in a specific medium)
Standing wave
(when two waves having similar frequencies
move with same speed along opposite directions
in a specific medium)
Constructive Destructive wave • Nodes: (a point along a standing wave
wave interference interference where the wave has minimum amplitude)
• Antinodes: (a point along a standing wave
where the wave has maximum amplitude)

In organ pipe In stretched string:

fundamental frequency
Closed at one end: Open at both end: 1 T
fundamental frequency f =
fundamental frequency 2l µ
v v
f = f =
4lc 2lo

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RECAP

Wave Motion

Introduction
ӽ It is an oscillatory disturbance travelling through an elastic medium due to transfer of energy from one particle to
another particle. It transports both, energy and momentum without the transport of matter.
ӽ Wave is a disturbance which is produced due to the vibration of particles in the medium.
■ One-dimensional wave: Travelling along a single direction. E.g. - String wave.
■ Two-dimensional wave: Travelling in 2-D region. E.g. - Ripple on water surface.
■ Three-dimensional wave: Originates from source and spreads in all directions in space. E.g. - Radio waves.
Characteristics of Wave Motion
ӽ When wave passes through medium, medium particles only vibrate simple harmonically about their mean position.
They do not leave their positions and move with disturbance.
ӽ In wave motion, the phase of particles of medium keeps on changing.
ӽ The velocity of the particle during their vibration is different at different positions.
ӽ The velocity of wave motion through a particular medium is constant. It depends only on the nature of the medium
and not on the frequency, wavelength or intensity.
ӽ Energy is propagated along with the wave motion without any net transport of the medium.
Types of Waves
ӽ Three categories: Electromagnetic, Matter and Mechanical waves. Wavelength
ӽ Electromagnetic waves: These are formed when an electric field comes crest
in contact with a magnetic field. The electric and magnetic field of these
amplitude

amplitude
are perpendicular to each other and to the direction of the EM wave. equilibrium
■ These waves do not require any medium for their propagation.
All electromagnetic waves travel through vacuum at the same speed
c (c = 3 × 108 m/s). trough
ӽ Matter waves: Associated with moving quantum particle, also known Figure: Particle motion in
as de Broglie waves. Relationship between momentum and wavelength transverse wave
for matter waves is given by p = h/l, and relationship between energy and frequency is E = hf. The wavelength l =
h/p is called the de Broglie wavelength, and the relations l = h/p and f = E/h are called the de Broglie relations.
ӽ Mechanical waves: Require material medium for propagation. E.g.: Sound waves, Water waves, String waves.
■ The mechanical waves propagate through medium only when the medium has following properties:
Š Elastic in nature Direction of wave propagation
Š Possess inertia Direction of particle vibration
Š Small frictional resistance
■ Mechanical waves can be classified into two types:
Š Transverse waves: Particles move right angles to wave direction.
{ Highest point is crest. Lowest point is trough.

Š Longitudinal wave: Particle movements parallel to energy motion. Compression Rarefaction

Š Medium displacement is in same direction to wave, when particles
are close, it is compression, when particles are spread apart, it is Figure: Particle motion in
called rarefaction. longitudinal wave

Table: Comparison between Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

S. No. Transverse waves Longitudinal waves

1 Displacement of the medium is perpendicular Displacement of the medium is parallel to the direction
to the direction of propagation of the wave of propagation of the wave
2 These are composed of crests and troughs These are composed of compressions and rarefactions

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 Waves Chapter | 15 |

3 There are no pressure variations There is a pressure variation throughout the medium
4 Medium should possess the property of rigidity Medium should possess the property of elasticity
5 Transverse waves can be polarised Longitudinal waves cannot be polarised
6 There is no change in the density of medium There is a change in the density throughout the medium
7 Example: Vibrations in strings Example: Sound wave
■ Some waves are neither transverse nor longitudinal but combination of the both. For example- waves produced
by a motorboat sailing in water is a combination of both longitudinal and transverse waves.
Terms Involved in Wave Motion
ӽ Amplitude (A):
■ The maximum displacement of a vibrating particle in the path of the wave from its mean position is called its amplitude.
■ Unit of amplitude is metre in SI system and cm in CGS system and dimensional formula is [M0L1T0].
ӽ Time period (T):
■ Time taken by the vibrating particle to complete a to and fro motion or one vibration in the path of the wave.
■ Unit of time period is second in all systems and dimensional formula is [M0L0T1].
ӽ Frequency (f):
■ The number of vibrations of the particle of the medium in unit time is called frequency of vibrations.
■ Denoted by f and given by f = 1/T. Unit of frequency is Hertz (Hz) and dimensional formula is [M0L0T−1].
ӽ Wavelength (l):
■ It is the distance between two successive vibrating particles in the path of motion which are exactly in the same phase.
■ Unit of wavelength is metre in SI system and cm in CGS system and dimensional formula is [M0L1T0].
ӽ Velocity (v):
■ Distance travelled by the wave per unit time is called wave velocity. It is given by v = f l
■ Unit of velocity is m/s in SI system and cm/s in CGS system and dimensional formula is [M0L1T−1].
ӽ Wave number ( υ ):

■ It is the number of waves per unit length. It is given by υ = 1 .

λ
■ Unit of wave number is m−1 in SI system and cm−1 CGS system and dimensional formula is [M0L−1T2].
ӽ Particle velocity (vp):
■ When wave is propagated through the medium, velocity of vibrating particles of the medium is called particle velocity.
v p = ω A2 − x 2
ӽ Intensity of a wave (I):
■ Amount of energy flow per unit area per unit time in direction perpendicular to wave propagation,
I = 2 π2 f 2 A 2 ρ v
The SI unit of intensity is W m−2 and dimensional formula of intensity of a wave is [ML0T−3].
ӽ Energy density (u):
■ It is defined as amount of energy flow per unit volume. It is denoted by symbol u and is given by.
u = 2 π2 A 2 f 2 ρ
■ The SI unit of energy density is J m−3 and dimensional formula is [ML−1T−2].
Displacement Relation for a Progressive Wave
ӽ Equation of plane progressive wave travelling along the +ve direction of x-axis is given by,
y = A sin(ωt − kx + φ )
1
Angular frequency, ω = 2πf = 2π
T
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ӽ Phase of the wave is the argument (ωt − kx + φ ) of the oscillatory term sin (ωt − kx + φ ) .

ӽ Wave speed is given by,

ω
v=
k
ӽ It depends only on the nature of the medium in which the wave propagates.
ӽ Slope of the wave is given by,
dy
= −kA cos(ωt − kx + φ )
dx
ӽ Particle speed is given by,
dy  ω  dy
v particle = = ω A cos(ωt − kx + φ ) = −   = − wave speed × slope of wave
dt  k  dx
ӽ Particle acceleration is given by,
d2 y
a = 2 = −ω 2 y
dt
ӽ Equation of plane progressive wave travelling along negative direction of x-axis is given by,
y = A sin(ωt + kx + φ )
ӽ A plane progressive wave can be written in many forms such as,
y = A sin(ωt + kx + φ ) ...(i)
2π
where ω = 2π f and k =
λ
 x
So, y = A sin 2π  ft −  ...(ii)
 λ
t x  1
y = A sin 2π  −  ...(iii)  f = 
T λ   T
2π
y = A sin (vt − x ) ...(iv )
λ
 2π 
y = A sin k(vt − x ) ...( v )  k =
 λ 
2π  x   x
y = A sin  t −  = A sin ω  t −  ...(vi)
T  v  v
ӽ The differential equation of one-dimensional progressive wave is given by,
d 2 y v 2d 2 y
=
dt 2 dx 2
Characteristics of Progressive Wave
ӽ Its equation is function of space and time as (ax ± bt). It is doubly periodic, both in time and space.
ӽ It may be a transverse or longitudinal wave. In it, particles of medium perform SHM about their equilibrium
positions when wave passes across them.

Relationship Between Phase Difference, Path Difference, and Time Difference

ӽ The relationship is given by,
2π 2π
Phase difference = × path difference; Phase difference = × time difference
λ T
ӽ A path difference of l corresponds to a phase difference of 2p radian.
ӽ To calculate phase difference between two waves, the equation of both waves must be in sine form or in cosine
form.

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 Waves Chapter | 15 |
The Speed of a Travelling Wave
y ∆x
ӽ A travelling wave is a wave that moves in space. Consider v
A
a wave is travelling in the positive direction of x-axis,
y = A sin(kx − ωt ) x
ӽ The distance covered by a wave in the direction of its
propagation per unit time is called the wave velocity. Wave at t = ∆t
Wave at t = 0
ӽ The motion of a fixed phase point on the wave is given by,
Figure: Progression of a harmonic wave from time t
kx − ωt = constant
to t + Dt where Dt is a small interval
Thus, as time t changes, the position x of the fixed phase
point must change so that the phase remains constant. Thus,
kx − ωt = k(x + ∆x ) − ω (t + ∆t ); or k∆x − ω∆t = 0
Taking ∆x, ∆t vanishingly small, this gives
dx ω 2π f λ
= = v; v = =λf =
dt k 2π / λ T
This represents the wave velocity or the phase velocity of a travelling wave.
Speed of a transverse wave on a stretched string is given by,
T
v=
µ
ӽ If suspended weight is immersed in a liquid of density σ and ρ is the density of material of the suspended load then,
 σ
T = Mg  1 − 
 ρ
 σ
Mg  1 − 
∴ v=  ρ
µ
If two rigid supports of stretched string are maintained at temperature difference ∆θ, then due to elasticity of string,
T = YAα∆θ
YAα∆θ Yα∆θ
∴ v= =
µ d

η
ӽ Speed of a transverse wave in a solid is given by, v =
ρ
ӽ Velocity of longitudinal wave (sound wave)
■ Velocity of sound in any elastic medium is given by,
E Elasticity of medium
v= =
ρ Density of medium

Y
■ In solids, v =
ρ
■ In a liquid and gaseous medium,
B
v=
ρ
■ Solids are most elastic while gases, least, so sound velocity is maximum in solids and minimum in gases,
∴ vsteel > v water > v air
5000 m / s > 1500 m / s > 330 m / s
■ The velocity of sound in case of extended solid (crust of the Earth),

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4
B+ η
v= 3
ρ
Newton’s Formula
ӽ As per Newton, propagation of sound wave in gas is isothermal process. So, speed of sound in gas is given by,
P
v=
ρ
ӽ This relation was first given by Newton and known as Newton’s formula. According to the Newton’s
formula, the speed of sound in air at Standard temperature presure, STP is 280 m s−1. But the experimental
value of the speed of sound in air at STP is 332 m s−1.
ӽ Newton could not explain this large difference. Newton’s formula was corrected by Laplace.
Laplace’s Correction
ӽ Laplace assumed that propagation of sound wave in gas is adiabatic process. So, speed of sound in gas is
given by,
γP γ RT
v= =
ρ m
ӽ This modification of Newton’s formula is Laplace correction. For air g = 7/5. To estimate the speed of sound in
air at STP, we get a value 331.3 ms–1, which agrees with the measured speed.

Factors Affecting Velocity of Sound in Gaseous Medium

ӽ Effect of pressure at constant temperature: Velocity of sound is independent of the pressure of gas because as
P γP
pressure increases, density also increases; hence ratio remains constant. So v = = constant
ρ ρ
ӽ Effect of temperature: With rise in temperature, velocity of sound increases.
γ RT γR
v= ; As, = constant; v ∝ T
M M
v T
∴ 1 = 1 =
( 273 + t1 )
v2 T2 ( 273 + t2 )
When the temperature change is small, then
vt = v0 + 0.61t
if t = 1 C then,
vt = ( v0 + 0.61) m / s
Hence for 1°C rise, speed of sound in air increases by 0.61 m/s.
ӽ Effect of density:
γP
v=
ρ
1
∴ v∝ (γ P = constant )
ρ
ӽ Effect of humidity: With increase, air density decreases. With humidity rise, sound velocity increases.
ӽ Effect of wind: Speed of sound also changes. Speed of sound is increased if wind blows in direction of
propagation of sound wave. But if wind blows opposite to direction of propagation, speed of sound is decreased.

Reflection of Waves

ӽ When waves are incident on boundary between two media, part of incident waves returns back to initial medium.

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 Waves Chapter | 15 |
ӽ The remaining wave is partly absorbed and transmitted to second medium, this is refraction of waves.
ӽ Angle of incidence is equal to angle of reflection. Frequency of waves remains same but phase changes.

Figure: (A) One end of string is fixed so that it cannot move. Wave propagating on string, encountering this
fixed boundary condition, is reflected 180° (π rad) out of phase with respect to incident wave; (B) One end
of string is tied to solid ring of negligible mass on frictionless lab pole, where ring is free to move. Wave
propagating on string, encountering this free boundary condition, is reflected in phase 0° (0 rad) with respect to
wave

Table: Reflection of Transverse Wave Form

Denser medium Rarer medium

Representation vp Vp V
v
Incident wave Denser Rarer
medium Incident wave
medium

Reflected wave
Vp
Reflected wave
vp v V

Wave velocity is reversed reversed

Particle velocity is reversed not reversed
Phase change 180°or π 0°
Crest is reflected as trough crest
Trough is reflected as crest trough

Table: Reflection of Longitudinal (Sound Wave) Wave form

Denser medium Rarer medium

Representation Vp V Vp V

Incident wave Rigid Incident wave

(a) wall (a) Rarer medium
C R C C R C

Vp V Vp V

Reflected wave Rigid

(b) Reflected wave Rarer medium
wall
C R C (b) R C R

Wave velocity is reversed reversed

Particle velocity is reversed not reversed
Phase change 180° or π 0°

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Compression is reflected as compression rarefaction

Rarefaction is reflected as rarefaction compression

Echo
ӽ When same sound note is heard after reflection from an obstacle. Echo is based on the principle of reflection of
sound wave. For echo formation, the minimum distance between source of a sound and reflector should be 17 m.
ӽ Working of stethoscope, whispering gallery etc. are based on the principle of reflection formation.
ӽ If there is a sound reflector at a distance d from the source, the time interval between original sound and its echo
at the site of source will be,
d d 2d
t= + =
v v v
Now as persistence of ear is (1/10) s, echo of a sharp or momentary sound (such as clap) will be heard if,
1 2d 1 v
t> ; or, > ;d >
10 v 10 20
ӽ If a person standing between two parallel hills fires a gun and hears the first echo after t1 s, the second echo after t2
s and v is the velocity of sound, then the distance between the two hills is given by,
 vt   vt   v ( t + t ) 
s1 + s2 =  1  +  1  =  1 2 
 2   2   2 
Reverberation Time
ӽ Reverberation is the phenomenon of persistence of sound after it has been stopped as a result of multiple reflections
from surfaces such as furniture, people, air etc. within a closed surface.
ӽ The time for which sound continues to be heard even after the source has stopped producing sound.
24(ln10)V
ӽ According to Sabine’s formula the reverberation time of a hall is given by, RT60 =
c20 Sa

Superposition of Waves

Principle of Superposition of Waves

ӽ When two or more waves arrive at a point simultaneously, then each wave produces
its own displacement independent of the other. The resultant displacement at a point is wave 1 wave 2
a vector sum of the displacements due to the individual waves. Both waves come
  closer to each other
combination to
form a bigger wave
ӽ If y1 and y2 are displacements due to the individual waves, then the resultant is,
  
y = y1 + y2
ӽ The resultant amplitude due to the interference of two waves of amplitude A1 and A2 is,
A = A12 + A22 + 2 A1 A2 cos φ
after superimposing
2 2 2 they went back in
∴ A = A + A + 2 A1 A2 cos φ
1 2 different directions

ӽ Intensity of resultant wave is given by the relation, Figure: Superposition of waves

I ∝ A2
∴ I = kA2
From equation (i), kA2 = kA12 + kA22 + 2k 2 A1 A2 cos φ
∴ I = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1 I 2 cos φ
ӽ The above expression gives the resultant intensity.
2

I max ( A1 + A2 )
= =
2
( I1 + I 2 )
I min ( A1 − A2 )2 2

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( I1 − I 2 )
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
ӽ The superposition of waves can lead to the following three effects:
■ Whenever two waves with same frequency travel with same speed along same direction in specific medium,
then they superpose and create an effect termed as the interference of waves.
■ In a situation where two waves having similar frequencies move with the same speed along opposite directions
in a specific medium, then they superpose to produce stationary waves.
■ Finally, when two waves having slightly varying frequencies travel with the same speed along the same direction
in a specific medium, they superpose to produce beats.

Interference of Waves
ӽ Wave interference is the phenomenon that occurs when two waves meet while travelling along the same medium
to form a resultant wave of greater, lower or the same amplitude.

Types of Wave Interference

ӽ When two waves meet while travelling along the same medium, either the
amplitudes of both waves are added, or the amplitudes of both waves are
subtracted. Based on this, the wave interference is of two types:
ӽ Constructive wave interference: If crest of wave meets crest of another
wave of same frequency at same point. Interference which occurs when in
phase waves meets each other and forms new wave with greater amplitude.
ӽ Condition for constructive interference:
Phase difference = 2nπ
where, n = 0, 1, 2, …
λ
Path difference = × phase difference = nλ
2π
where, n = 0, 1, 2, ..
ӽ Destructive wave interference: If crest of wave meets trough of another A
wave of same frequency. Interference which occurs when out of phase B
waves meets each other and forms a new wave with lower amplitude.
ӽ Condition for destructive interference: A+B
Phase difference = (2n + 1)π
where, n = 0, 1, 2, …
λ  1 A
Path difference = × Phase difference =  n +  λ B
2π  2
where, n = 0, 1, 2, … Figure: Destructive wave interference
Stationary Waves (Standing Waves)
ӽ When two simple waves of equal frequencies, wavelength, and amplitudes travelling through a medium in opposite
direction along the same line coincide then the resultant effect is a wave which does not travel. E.g.
■ Wave on stretched strings
■ Wave in closed organ pipes
■ Wave in open pipes
ӽ Energy does not propagate in this type of wave so that it is named as stationary wave.

Types of Stationary Waves

ӽ Longitudinal stationary waves: e.g.: Sound waves in air column, resonance tube etc.
ӽ Transverse stationary waves: e.g.: Waves in Melde’s experiment, sonometer experiment, etc.

Condition for Stationary Waves

■ There must be superposition of two identical waves travelling along the same line but in opposite directions.
■ The waves must have the same frequency. The waves must have the same amplitude.
■ Their speeds must be equal, though in opposite directions. The medium must be bounded and finite.
ӽ Equation of a stationary wave is given by,
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y = 2 A cos(kx )sin(ωt )
ӽ Stationary waves are characterised by nodes and antinodes.
ӽ Nodes:
■ Points on a stationary wave at which the particles have minimum amplitude and always at rest are called nodes.
■ Location of nodes is given by,
λ 3λ 5λ
x= , , ,…
4 4 4
■ Distance between successive nodes is,
3λ λ 5λ 3λ λ
− = − =…=
4 4 4 4 2
Nodes are equispaced at intervals of l/2.
ӽ Antinodes:
■ Points on a stationary wave at which the particles oscillate with a maximum amplitude are called antinodes.
■ Location of antinodes is given by,
λ 3λ
x = 0, , λ, ,…
2 2
■ Distance between successive antinodes is,
λ λ 3λ λ
−0 = λ − = − λ , …, =
2 2 2 2
■ Antinodes are equispaced at intervals of l/2.

Characteristics of Stationary Waves

ӽ Wave does not advance but remains confined in particular region. Amplitude of particles varies as per their position.
Distance between two consecutive nodes/antinodes is l/2. All particles except at node perform SHM.
ӽ All particles in one loop vibrate in the same phase. Particles from two successive loops vibrate in opposite phase.
ӽ There is no net transfer of energy across any section of the medium.
ӽ Stationary waves are formed by interfering incident wave and reflected wave from boundary of another medium.
ӽ Nodes and antinodes are alternately produced. Distance between a node and an adjacent antinode is l/4.
ӽ All the particles of the medium vibrate with the same period as that of the individual wave except the particles at
the nodes which are always at rest.
ӽ Stationary waves are periodic in space and periodic in time.
ӽ All the particles of the medium pass through their mean positions simultaneously twice in each time period.
ӽ All particles of medium do not vibrate with the same amplitude, it increases from nodes to antinodes.

Table: Difference Between Progressive Waves and Stationary Waves

Progressive waves Stationary waves

1 These waves transfer energy
2 All particles have the same amplitude
3 Over one wavelength span, all parti-
cles have different phase
4 No point is at rest
5 All particles do not cross the mean
position simultaneously
These waves do not transfer energy
Between a node and an antinode, all particles have different amplitudes
Between a node and an antinode, all particles have same phase
Nodes are always at rest
All particles cross the mean position simultaneously

Terms Related to Application of Stationary Waves

ӽ Note: Any musical sound produced by the simple harmonic oscillations of the source is called note.
ӽ Tone: Every musical sound consists of number of components of different frequencies. Each component is a tone.
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 Waves Chapter | 15 |
ӽ Fundamental note and fundamental frequency: The note of lowest frequency produced by an instrument is
called fundamental note. The frequency of this note is called fundamental frequency.
ӽ Harmonics: The frequencies which are integral multiples of the fundamental frequency are known as harmonics.
■ If n be the fundamental frequency, then the frequencies n, 2n, 3n .... are first, second, third .... harmonics.
ӽ Overtone: The harmonics other than the first (fundamental note) which are actually produced by the instrument
are called overtones. e.g.: The tone with frequency just higher than the fundamental is its first overtone.
ӽ Octave: The tone whose frequency is double the fundamental frequency is defined as octave.
ӽ Unison: If two frequencies are equal, then vibrating bodies are said to be in unison.
ӽ Resonance: The phenomenon of making a body to vibrate with its natural frequency under the influence of another
vibrating body with the same frequency is called resonance.

Vibrations in a Stretched String of LengthlFixed at Both Ends

ӽ Speed of transverse waves in a stretched string is given by,
T
v=
µ
ӽ If the string vibrates in p loops, then,
λ 2l
p   = l ;or, λ =
 
2 p
Fundamental mode or first mode:
λ1 = 2l
v v 1 T
Fundamental frequency, f1 = = =
λ1 2l 2l µ
This frequency is called first harmonic.
ӽ Second mode:
λ2 = l
v v
Frequency, f 2 = = = 2 f1
λ2 l
This frequency is called second harmonic or first overtone.
ӽ Third mode:
2l
λ3 =
3
v 3v
Frequency, f 3 = = = 3 f1
λ3 2l

This frequency is called third harmonic or second overtone.

ӽ For nth mode:
2l
λn =
n
v nv n T
Frequency of nth mode, fn = = = nf1 =
λn 2l 2l µ
ӽ Laws of vibrating string
■ Law of length: If T and µ are constant, then,
1
f ∝ ; ∴ fl = constant; ∴ f1l1 = f 2 l2
l
■ Law of mass: If T and l are constant, then,
1 f1 µ2
f∝ ; ∴ f µ = constant; ∴ =
µ f2 µ1
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■ Law of density: If T, l and r are constant, then,

1 f1 ρ2
f∝ ; ∴ f ρ = constant; ∴ =
ρ f2 ρ1
■ Law of tension: If l and µ are constant, then,
f f1 T
f ∝ T ;∴ = constant; ∴ = 2
T f2 T1
Organ Pipe
ӽ Organ pipes are the musical instruments which are used for producing musical sounds by blowing air into it.
ӽ There are two types of organ pipes:
■ Closed organ pipe.
■ Open organ pipe.
ӽ In both the organ pipes, longitudinal stationary waves are formed due to superimposition of incident and reflected
longitudinal waves.

Closed organ pipe

ӽ Air column in closed pipe can vibrate with different modes.
ӽ Fundamental mode of vibration is as shown in figure (A).
In this case, frequency of vibration of air column is,
v
f1 =
4l
It is known as fundamental frequency or first harmonic.
It is the least frequency.
ӽ Second mode of vibration is as shown in figure (B). In
this case, frequency of vibration is,
3v
=
f2 = 3 f1
4l
ӽ This frequency is three times the fundamental frequency, so it is called as third harmonic or first overtone.
ӽ Third mode of vibration is as shown in figure (C). In this case, frequency of vibration is,
5v
=
f 3 = 5 f1
4l
ӽ This frequency is five times the fundamental frequency. Therefore, it is called as fifth harmonic or second overtone.
ӽ In pth mode, frequency of vibration of air column is given by,
v
f p = (2 p − 1)
4l
ӽ It is known as (2p − 1) harmonic or (2p − 3) overtone. It will contain p nodes and p antinodes.
ӽ Thus, air column vibrates with frequency f1, 3f1, 5f1...., i.e., only odd hormonic are present.

Open organ pipe

ӽ The air column in a pipe open at both ends can vibrate in a number of
different modes subjected to the boundary condition that there must
be an antinode at the open end.
ӽ Fundamental mode of vibration is as shown in figure (A). In this
case, frequency of vibration of air column is,
v
f1 = Figure: Different modes in open organ pipe
2l
ӽ It is known as fundamental frequency or first harmonic of an air column in the open pipe. It is the least frequency.
ӽ Second mode of vibration is as in figure (B). Frequency of vibration of air column is,

454
 Waves Chapter | 15 |

v
f 2== 2 f1
l
This frequency is twice the fundamental frequency. Therefore, it is called as second harmonic or first overtone.
ӽ Third mode of vibration is as shown in figure (C). In this case, frequency of vibration of air column is,
3v
=
f 3 = 3 f1
2l
This frequency is three times the fundamental frequency. It is called as third harmonic or second overtone.
In pth mode, frequency of vibration of air column is given by,
v
fp = p
2l
It is known as pth harmonic or (p − 1)th overtone. It will contain p nodes and (p + 1) antinodes.
ӽ Thus, frequency f1, 2f1 3f1.....Hence, all harmonics are present.

A A
End Correction e e
ӽ Due to finite momentum of air molecules in organ pipe, reflection takes
place not at open end but above it. So antinode is not formed at the open N
end; rather it is formed at a little distance away from open end outside it. l l N l l′
ӽ Distance of antinode from open end is end correction (e), given by, e = 0.6 r A
′
ӽ Effective length in open organ pipe, l = (l + 2e)
e A
′ A N
ӽ Effective length in closed organ pipe, l = (l + e)
Figure (A) Figure (B)

ӽ Due to end correction, fundamental frequency of a closed organ pipe is, End correction in open pipe End cor-
v v rection in closed pipe
fC = = Figure: End correction in organ pipe
4[l + e] 4[l + 0.6r ]
ӽ Due to the end correction, the fundamental frequency of an open organ pipe is given by,
v v
fo = =
2[l + 2e] 2[l + 1.2r ]
ӽ Speed of sound in air by resonance tube: In air at room temperature by using resonance tube is given by,
v = 2 f ( l2 − l1 )

l2 − 3l1
End correction, e =
2
Formation of Beats
ӽ Beats is interesting phenomenon arising from interference of waves.
ӽ When two sound waves of the same amplitude or slightly different amplitudes and slightly different frequencies
are superimposed, then the intensity of sound changes periodically with time between a maximum and a minimum.
This phenomenon of pulsating loudness of sound is known as beats. Beat frequency,
1
f = = f1 − f 2
T
ӽ If L tuning forks are arranged in increasing frequencies, and any two successive forks produce X beats/second,

frequency of last fork = frequency of first fork + (L − 1) X ; ∴ f L = f F + (L − 1)X

ӽ If L tuning forks are arranged in decreasing frequencies and any two successive forks produce X beats/second,

Frequency of last fork = Frequency of first fork − (L − 1) X ; ∴ f L = f F − (L − 1)X

455
Telegram @unacademyplusdiscounts
bjective Physics

Conditions for Beat Formation

ӽ Two waves should have slightly different frequencies. Amplitude of the two waves should be equal or nearly equal.
ӽ The two sound waves should simultaneously arrive at a point in the medium and interfere with each other.
ӽ They should travel in the same direction or nearly same direction with same speed.

Applications of Beats
ӽ To determine the frequency of tuning fork: Suppose f1 is known frequency of tuning fork C and f2 is unknown
frequency of tuning fork D. When both the forks are sounded together, suppose X beats are heard per second.
∴ f 2 = f1 ± X
The ± sign of X is decided either by filing one of the prongs of any one of the tuning fork or by loading any one of
the tuning fork with a little wax and recounting the number of beats.
■ When the prongs of tuning fork are filed, the frequency of the fork increases.
■ When the prongs of tuning fork are loaded with wax, the frequency of fork decreases.
■ On filing the unknown fork:
If number of beats per second increases, X is taken as positive,
i.e., f 2 = f1 + X

If number of beats per second decreases or remains same, X is taken as negative,

i.e., f 2 = f1 − X

■ On loading the unknown fork:

If number of beats per second increases, X is taken as positive,
i.e., f 2 = f1 − X

If number of beats per second decreases or remains same, X is taken as negative,

i.e., f 2 = f1 + X

ӽ To tune musical instruments.

ӽ To detect harmful gases in a mine.

Characteristics of Musical Sound

ӽ A musical sound has the following three characteristics-
■ Pitch: The pitch is the characteristics of a musical sound which depends upon the frequency. The sound with
low frequency is low pitch able sound and the sound with high frequency is high pitch able sound.
■ Loudness: The loudness of musical sound is related to the intensity of the sound the higher is the intensity, the
higher will be the loudness. If I be the intensity of the sound, then the loudness L is related to the I as,
 I 
L = log10  
 I0 
■ Quality or timber: It measures complexity of sound. Quality of sound depends upon number and intensity of
harmonics present. Pure sound produces less pleasing effect then sound consisting of a no of harmonics.

Doppler’s Effect

ӽ Phenomenon of apparent change in frequency of sound due to relative motion between source and listener.
ӽ The apparent frequency heard by the listener is,
 v ± vL 
fa =  f
 v  vs 
ӽ When a listener and source move towards each other, we use +vL and −vs.
ӽ When a listener and source move away from each other, we use −vL and +vs.
ӽ Doppler effect is observed in both light and sound.

456
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
ӽ Doppler’s effect is not observed when,
■ source and listener both are at rest. Source and listener both are moving with same speed and same direction.
■ source and listener both are at right angles to each other.
■ motion of source and listener is such that the distance between them is same; one at the centre of the circle and
other moving along the circumference of the circle.
ӽ When moving listener crosses stationary source, then ratio of apparent frequencies before and after crossing is,
f1 v + v L
=
f2 v − vL
ӽ When moving source crosses stationary listener, then ratio of apparent frequencies before and after crossing is,
f1 v + v s
=
f2 v − vs

ӽ When a source is revolving around a stationary listener, then

 v   v 
f max =   f ; f min =  f
 v − v s   v + vs 
ӽ When a listener is revolving around a stationary source, then
 v + vL  ;  v − vL 
f max =   f f min =  f
 v   v 
ӽ If source motion is along direction other than mentioned above, velocity component of source vcosθ is along line
joining source and listener. In this situation, apparent frequency fa is not constant, and it depends on θ, given by,
 v 
fa =  f
 v − v s cos θ 
Effect of Wind Velocity on Doppler’s Effect in Sound
ӽ If the wind is blowing with a velocity w in the direction of propagation of sound, then the apparent velocity of
sound will be (v + w). Then in all above equations, in place of v, (v + w) should be used.
ӽ If wind is blowing with velocity w in direction opposite to propagation of sound, then apparent velocity of sound
will be (v - w). In all above equations, in place of v, (v − w) should be used. So, apparent frequency becomes,
 (v ± w ) ± v L 
fa =  f
 (v ± w )  v s 
Applications of Doppler’s Effect
ӽ Radar (Radio detection and ranging).
ӽ To determine speed of astronomical bodies.
ӽ SONAR (sound waves navigation and ranging).

PRACTICE TIME

3. The correct graph between the frequency n and

Wave Motion square root of density (ρ) of a wire, keeping its
length, radius and tension constant, is:
1. When a sound wave goes from one medium to
(a)
another, the quantity that remains unchanged is:
(a) frequency (b) amplitude
(c) wavelength (d) speed
2. For which of the following do the longitudinal waves
exist?
(a) Vacuum (b) Air
(c) Water (d) Both (b) and (c)
457
 bjective Physics

(b) 2
1 3

Which one of the following correctly shows the

direction of the velocity of the points 1, 2 and 3 on
(c) the string:
(a) 1− → 2− → 3− → (b) 1− → 2− ← 3− →

(c) 1− ↓ 2− ↓ 3− ↓ (d) 1− ↓ 2− ↑ 3− ↓

(d) 9. The velocity of sound in hydrogen is 1224 m/s. Its

velocity in a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen con-
taining 4 parts by volume of hydrogen and 1 part of
oxygen is:
(a) 1224 m/s (b) 612 m/s
(c) 2448 m/s (d) 306 m/s
That means graph between n and √ρ will be hyper- 10. Equation of a travelling wave is as given below. (All
bola.  πx 
quantities are in SI units). y = (0.02)sin  20πt − .
4. What is the effect of humidity on sound waves when  0.1 
humidity increases?
Match the physical quantities listed in column I
(a) Speed of sound waves is more
with their corresponding numerical values listed
(b) Speed of sound waves is less in column II.
(c) Speed of sound waves remains same
(d) Speed of sound waves becomes zero Column I Column II
2π A Frequency of wave (i) 0.4π
5. The equation y = a sin (ω − x ) is expression for:
λ B Maximum particle speed (ii) 0.2
(a) stationary wave of single frequency along x-axis C Speed of wave (iii) 10
(b) a simple harmonic motion D Wavelength of wave (iv) 2
(c) a progressive wave of single frequency along
X-axis (a) A-(iii), B-(i), C-(ii), D-(iv)
(d) the resultant of two SHMs of slightly different (b) A-(iii), B-(i), C-(iv), D-(ii)
frequencies (c) A-(i), B-(iii), C-(ii), D-(iv)
6. The diagram below shows the propagation of a wave. (d) A-(iii), B-(ii), C-(i), D-(iv)
Which points are in same phase: 11. The property of a medium necessary for wave propa-
E gation is:
H (a) inertia (b) elasticity
(c) low resistance (d) All of the above
A D 12. The equation y = A sin2 (kx − ωt ) represents a wave
F G
B C with:
ω
(a) amplitude A, frequency
(a) F and G (b) C and E 2π
(c) B and G (d) B and F
7. Sound travels in rocks in the form of: ω
(b) amplitude A/2, frequency
(a) longitudinal elastic waves only π
(b) transverse elastic waves only
(c) both longitudinal and transverse elastic waves ω
(c) amplitude 2A, frequency
(d) non-elastic waves 4π
8. The diagram below shows an instantaneous position (d) it does not represent a wave motion
of a string as a transverse progressive wave travels
along it from left to right
458
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
13. At t = 0, the shape of a travelling pulse is given by 19. Of the following, the equation of plane progressive
4 × 10−3 wave is:
y(x , 0) = where x and y are in metres. The
8 − (x )−2 (a) y = r sin ωt
wave function for the travelling pulse if the velocity (b) y = r sin(ωt − kx )
of propagation is 5 m/s in the x-direction is given by: a
−3
(c) y= sin(ωt − kx )
4 × 10 r
(a) y(x , t ) =
(
8 − x 2 − 5t ) (d)
a
y = sin(ωt − kr )
r
4 × 10−3
(b) y(x , t ) = 20. Sound waves are travelling in a medium whose adi-
8 − (x − 5t )2
abatic elasticity is E and isothermal elasticity E’. The
4 × 10−3 velocity of sound waves is proportional to:
(c) y(x , t ) = (a) E’ (b) √E
8 − (x + 5t )2
(c) √E’ (d) E/E’
4 × 10−3 21. Sound waves transfer:
(d) y(x , t ) =
(
8 − x 2 + 5t ) (a) energy
(b) momentum
14. The equation of a wave of a string of linear mass den- (c) both energy and momentum
sity 0.04 kg m−1 is given by, y = 0.02(m)sin (d) only energy not momentum
  t x  22. When a sound wave of frequency 300 Hz passes
2 π  −  . The tension in the string is:
  0 . 04( s ) 0 . 50(m)   through a medium, the maximum displacement of
a particle of the medium is 0.1 cm. The maximum
(a) 4.0 N (b) 12.5 N velocity of the particle is equal to:
(c) 0.5 N (d) 6.25 N
15. The ratio of the speed of a body to the speed of sound (a) 60π cms −1 (b) 30π cms −1
is called:
(a) Mach number (b) Doppler ratio (c) 30 cms −1 (d) 60 cms −1
(c) Sonic index (d) Refractive index 23. Choose the false statement(s) about speed of trans-
16. When two sound waves travel in the same direction verse waves on a stretched string.
in a medium, the displacements of a particle located (i) It depends on linear mass density of the string.
at x at time t is given by: (ii) It depends on the tension in the string in.
y1 = 0.05 cos(0.50πx − 100πt ) (iii) It depends on the frequency of the wave.
y2 = 0.05 cos(0.46πx − 92πt ) (a) (i) only (b) (ii) only
where y1, y2, and x are in metres and t in seconds. The (c) (iii) only (d) (i), (ii), and (iii)
speed of sound in the medium is: 24. In Laplace correction the propagation of sound wave
(a) 92 m/s (b) 200 m/s in gas is an _____ process.
(c) 100 m/s (d) 332 m/s (a) Adiabatic (b) Isothermal
17. A sonometer wire of length 1.5 m is made of steel. (c) Isothermal (d) None of these
The tension in it produces an elastic strain of 1%. 25. The diagram below shows the propagation of a wave.
What is the fundamental frequency of steel if den- Which points are in same phase?
sity and elasticity of steel are 7.7 × 103 kg/m3 and E
2.2 × 1011 N/m2 respectively? H
(a) 188.5 Hz (b) 178.2 Hz A
(c) 200.5 Hz (d) 770 Hz D
F G
18. The relation between velocity of sound in a gas (v) B C
and rms velocity of molecules of gas (vrms) is:
(a) F and G (b) C and E
(a) v = vrms (γ / 3)1/2 (b) vrms = v(2 / 3)1/2 (c) B and G (d) B and F
26. Ultrasonic, infrasonic and audible waves travel
(c) v = vrms (d) v = vrms (3 / γ )1/2 through a medium with speeds Vu, Vi, and Va respec-
tively, then:
459
 bjective Physics

(a) Vu, Vi, and Va are nearly equal 32. A phase reversal of π means there is:
(b) vu ≥ va ≥ vi (a) reversal of wave velocity
(b) reversal of particle velocity
(c) v u ″ v a ″ vi (c) reversal of particle as well as wave velocity
(d) no change in particle velocity
(d) va ≤ vu and vu ≈ ν i
33. A progressive wave y = A sin(kx − ωt ) is reflected by
27. A wave is travelling along a string. At an instant, a rigid wall at x = 0. Then the reflected wave can be
shape of the string is as shown in fig. At this instant, represented by:
point A is moving upwards. Which of the following (a) y = A sin(kx + ωt )
statements is/are correct?
B (b) y = A cos(kx + ωt )
A C
o (c) y = − A sin(kx − ωt )
x
(d) y = − A sin(kx + ωt )

(a) The wave is travelling to the right.

(b) Displacement amplitude of the wave is equal to
displacement of B at this instant.
(c) At this instant velocity of C is also directed
upwards.
(d) Phase difference between A and C may be equal
to.
28. The reason for introducing Laplace correction in the
expression for the velocity of sound in a gaseous
medium is:
(a) no change in the temperature of the medium
during the propagation of the sound through it.
(b) no change in the heat of the medium during the
propagation of the sound through it.
(c) change in the pressure of the gas due to the
compression and rarefaction.
(d) change in the volume of the gas.
29. Two waves are represented by the equations
y1 = a sin(ωt + kx + 0.57)m and y2 = a cos(cot + kx )m
where x is in metre and t in sec. The phase difference
between them is:
(a) 1 radian (b) 1.25 radian
(c) 1.57 radian (d) 0.57 radian
30. For a sinusoidal wave represented by
y( x , t ) = a sin(kx − ωt + φ ) for a given a, the factor
determines the displacement of the wave of any posi-
tion and at any instant is:
(a) constant k
(b) angular velocity ω
(c) time interval t
Superposition of Waves
34. Two sound waves travel in the same direction in a
medium. The amplitude of each wave is A and the
phase difference between the two waves is 120°. The
resultant amplitude will be:
(a) √2A (b) 2A
(c) 3A (d) A
35. Two sound sources S2 and S1 emit pure sinusoidal
coherent waves in phase. If the speed of sound is
340 m/s, then find out the frequencies for which con-
structive interference occurs at P.
(a) 170 Hz (b) 340 Hz
(c) 510 Hz (d) All of these
36. Two tuning forks P and Q are vibrated together. The
numbers of beats produced are represented by the
straight line OA in the following graph. After loading
Q with wax again these are vibrated together, and the
beats produced are represented by the line OB. If the
frequency of P is 341 Hz, the frequency of Q will be:
A B
3
Beats

(d) phase (kx − ωt + φ )

2
1
Reflection of Waves (s)
0
1 2
31. When a wave is reflected from a denser medium, the
change in phase is: (a) 341 Hz (b) 338 Hz
(a) 0 (b) π (c) 344 Hz (d) None of these
(c) 2π (d) 3π
460
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
37. If the temperature increases, then what happens to the (a) 10 (b) 4
frequency of the sound produced by the organ pipe: (c) 20 (d) 6
(a) Increases (b) Decreases 43. An open pipe is suddenly closed at one end with the
(c) Unchanged (d) Not definite result that the frequency of third harmonic of the
38. A tuning fork arrangement (pair) produces 4 beats/sec closed pipe is found to be higher by 100 Hz, then the
with one fork of frequency 288 cps. A little wax is fundamental frequency of open pipe is:
placed on the unknown fork and it then produces (a) 480 Hz (b) 300 Hz
2 beats/sec. The frequency of the unknown fork is: (c) 240 Hz (d) 200 Hz
(a) 286 cps (b) 292 cps 44. The intensity of harmonic wave:
(c) 294 cps (d) 288 cps (a) depends upon its frequency and not on its
39. When two sound waves are superimposed, beats are amplitude
produced when they have different: (b) depends upon its amplitude and not on its fre-
quency
(a) amplitudes and phases
(c) depends upon both, its frequency and amplitude
(b) velocities
(d) depends neither on frequency nor on its ampli-
(c) phases tude
(d) frequency 45. If the intensities of two interfering waves be I1 and
40. Fundamental frequency of pipe is 100 Hz and other I2, the contrast between maximum and minimum
two frequencies are 300 Hz and 500 Hz then: intensity is maximum, when:
(a) Pipe is open at both the ends (a) I1 >> I 2 (b) I1 << I 2
(b) Pipe is closed at both the ends
(c) I1 = I 2 (d) either I1 or I2 is zero
(c) One end open and another end is closed
(d) None of these 46. Two open organ pipes of length 25 cm and 25.5 cm
produce 10 beat/sec. The velocity of sound will be:
41. Match the following.
(a) 255 m/s (b) 250 m/s
Column I Column II (c) 350 m/s (d) None of these
A Whenever two waves (i) beats 47. Which of the following changes at an antinode in a
having the same frequen- stationary wave?
cy travel with the same (a) Density only
speed along the same (b) Pressure only
direction in a specific (c) Both pressure and density
medium, then they super- (d) Neither pressure nor density
pose and create an effect
48. On producing the waves of frequency 1000 Hz in a
termed as the
Kundt’s tube, the total distance between 6 successive
B Where two waves having (ii) interfer- nodes is 85 cm. Speed of sound in the gas filled in the
similar frequencies move ence of tube is:
with the same speed along waves (a) 330 m/s (b) 340 m/s
opposite directions in a (c) 350 m/s (d) 300 m/s
specific medium, then
49. Consider the three waves z1, z2 and z3 as
they superpose to produce
z1 = A sin(kx − ωt )
C When two waves having (iii) stationary
slightly varying frequen- waves z 2 = A sin(kx + ωt )
cies travel with the same z 3 = A sin(ky − ω t)
speed along the same
Which of the following represents a standing wave?
direction in a specific
(a) z1 + z2 (b) z2 + z3
medium, they superpose to
(c) z3 + z1 (d) z1 + z2 + z3
produce
50. An open pipe of length 33 cm resonates with fre-
(a) A-(ii), B-(iii), C-(i) quency of 100 Hz. If the speed of sound is 330 m/s,
(b) A-(i), B-(ii), C-(iii) then this frequency is:
(c) A-(iii), B-(i), C-(ii) (a) Fundamental frequency of the pipe
(d) None of these (b) Third harmonic of the pipe
42. Maximum number of beats frequency heard by a (c) Second harmonic of the pipe
human being is: (d) Fourth harmonic of the pipe
461
 bjective Physics

51. The fundamental frequency of a closed end organ

pipe is n. Its length is doubled and radius is halved. (a)
( ρ A + ρ0 ) (b)
( ρ A + 2 ρ0 )
Its frequency will become nearly: ( ρ A − ρ0 ) ( ρ A − 2 ρ0 )
(a) n/2 (b) n/3  1 
(c) n (d) 2n ρA  ρ A + 2 ρ0 
52. If v is the speed of sound in air then the shortest (c) (d)  
ρ0  1 
length of the closed pipe which resonates to a fre-  ρ A − 2 ρ0 
quency n:  
v v 59. Frequencies of sound produced from an organ pipe
(a) (b) open at both ends are:
4n 2n
(a) only fundamental node
2n 4n (b) only even harmonics
(c) (d)
v v (c) only odd harmonics
53. The fifth harmonic for vibrations of a stretched string (d) even and odd harmonics
is shown in figure. How many nodes are present here? 60. A tube closed at one end and containing air is excited.
It produces the fundamental note of frequency 512 Hz.
If the same tube is open at both the ends the funda-
mental frequency that can be produced:
(a) 4 (b) 6 (a) 1024 Hz (b) 512 Hz
(c) 5 (d) 10 (c) 256 Hz (d) 128 Hz
54. An open pipe resonates with a tuning fork of fre- 61. A closed organ pipe (closed at one end) is excited to
quency 500 Hz. it is observed that two successive support the third overtone. It is found that air in the
nodes are formed at distances 16 cm and 46 cm from pipe has:
the open end. The speed of sound in air in the pipe is: (a) three nodes and three antinodes
(a) 230 m/s (b) 300 m/s (b) three nodes and four antinodes
(c) 320 m/s (d) 360 m/s (c) four nodes and three antinodes
55. An organ pipe P1, closed at one end vibrating in its (d) four nodes and four antinodes
first overtone and another pipe P2 open at both ends
62. If there are six loops for 1 m length in transverse
vibrating in third overtone are in resonance with a
mode of Melde’s experiment., the no. of loops in lon-
given tuning fork. The ratio of the length of P1 to that
gitudinal mode under otherwise identical conditions
of P2 is:
would be:
(a) 8/3 (b) 3/8
(a) 3 (b) 6
(c) 1/2 (d) 1/3
(c) 12 (d) 8
56. The length of two open organ pipes are l and (l + Δl)
63. A closed pipe and an open pipe have their first
respectively. Neglecting end correction, the fre-
overtones identical in frequency. Their lengths are
quency of beats between them will be approximately:
in the ratio:
v v
(a) (b) (a) 1:2 (b) 2:3
2l 4l
(c) 3:4 (d) 4:5
v∅l v∅l 64. What will be the frequency of beats formed from the
(c) (d) superposition of two harmonic waves shown below?
2l 2 l
57. Length of a sonometer wire between two fixed ends y
is 110 cm. If the fundamental frequencies are in the 1.0
ratio of 1:2:3, then what is the ratio of lengths of 0
these segments of the wire? t(s)
-1.0 (a)
(a) 3:2:1 (b) 6:3:2 y
(c) 6:2:3 (d) 2:3:6 1.0
0
58. A source of sound placed at the open end of a reso- t(s)
nance column sends an acoustic wave of pressure -1.0 (b)
amplitude ρ0 inside the tube. If the atmospheric pres- (a) 20 Hz (b) 11 Hz
sure is ρA, then the ratio of maximum and minimum
(c) 9 Hz (d) 2 Hz
pressure at the closed end of the tube will be:
462
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
65. Two closed organ pipes, when sounded simultaneously 73. If the length of a closed organ pipe is 1 m and veloc-
gave 4 beats per sec. If longer pipe has a length of 1 m. ity of sound is 330 m/s, then the frequency for the
Then length of shorter pipe will be, (v = 300 m/s): second note is:
(a) 185.5 cm (b) 94.9 cm 330 330
(a) 4 × Hz (b) 3 × Hz
(c) 90 cm (d) 80 cm 4 4
66. Two factories are sounding their sirens at 800 Hz. A
330 4
man goes from one factory to other at a speed of 2 m/s. (c) 2× Hz (d) 2 × Hz
The velocity of sound is 320 m/s. The number of 4 330
beats heard by the person in one second will be: 74. Which of the following statements is/are correct
(a) 2 (b) 4 about the standing wave?
(c) 8 (d) 10 (i) In a standing wave the disturbance produce is con-
67. The first overtone in a closed pipe has a frequency: fined to the region where it is produced.
(a) Same as the fundamental frequency of an open (ii) In a standing wave, all the particles cross their mean
tube of same length. position together.
(b) Twice the fundamental frequency of an open (iii) In a standing wave, energy is transmitted from one
tube of same length. region of space to other.
(c) Same as that of the first overtone of an open (a) (i) and (ii) (b) Only (ii)
tube of same length. (c) Only (iii) (d) (i), (ii), and (iii)
(d) None of these 75. The number of possible natural oscillation of air
68. If the length of a stretched string is shortened by 40% column in a pipe closed at one end of length 85 cm
and the tension increased by 44% then the ratio of whose frequencies lie below 1250 Hz are: (velocity
the final and initial fundamental frequencies is: of sound = 340 m/s)
(a) 3:4 (b) 4:3 (a) 4 (b) 5
(c) 1:3 (d) 2:1 (c) 7 (d) 6
69. An empty vessel is partially filled with water, then 76. A cylindrical tube, open at both ends, has a fundamen-
the frequency of vibration of air column in the ves- tal frequency f0 in air. The tube is dipped vertically
sel: into water such that half of its length is inside water.
(a) remains same The fundamental frequency of the air column now is:
(b) decreases (a) 3f0/4 (b) f0
(c) increases (c) f0/2 (d) 2f0
(d) first increases then decreases 77. Three sound waves of equal amplitudes have frequen-
70. The equation of a resultant wave obtained after cies (f − 1), f, and (f + 1). They superpose to give beats.
superposition of two waves is given by The number of beats produced per second will be:
y( x , t ) = 2a sin kx cos ωt . The position of nodes will be (a) 3 (b) 2
given by: (c) 1 (d) 4
(a) sinkx = −1 (b) sinkx = 0 78. If the length of a closed organ pipe is 1.5 m and
velocity of sound is 330 m/s, then the frequency for
nπ the second note is:
(c) sinkx = 1 (d) sinkx = (a) 220 Hz (b) 165 Hz
2
(c) 110 Hz (d) 55 Hz
71. A pipe 30 cm long is open at both ends. Which har- 79. Two tones of frequencies n1 and n2 are sounded
monic mode of the pipe is resonantly excited by a together. The beats can be heard distinctly when:
1.1 kHz source? (Take speed of sound in air = 330
m/s) (a) 10 < ( n1 − n2 ) < 20
(a) First (b) Second
(c) Third (d) Fourth (b) 5 < ( n1 − n2 ) > 20
72. The fundamental frequency of a closed organ pipe
of length 20 cm is equal to the second overtone of an (c) 5 < ( n1 − n2 ) < 20
organ pipe open at both the ends. The length of organ
pipe open at both the ends is: (d) 0 < ( n1 − n2 ) < 10
(a) 100 cm (b) 120 cm
80. The fundamental note produced by a closed organ
(c) 140 cm (d) 80 cm pipe is of frequency f. The fundamental note pro-
463
 bjective Physics

duced by an open organ pipe of same length will be

of frequency: (b) f
(a) f/2 (b) f
(c) 2f (d) 4f
81. If n1, n2 and n3 are the fundamental frequencies of t2 t
three segments into which a string is divided, then
the original fundamental frequency n of the string is
given by: (c) f
1 1 1 1
(a) = + +
n n1 n2 n3
t2 t
1 1 1 1
(b) = + −
n n1 n2 n3
(d)
f
(c) n = n1 + n2 + n3

(d) n = n1 + n2 + n3 t2 t
82. An organ pipe P1 closed at one end vibrating in its 87. Doppler’s effect in sound takes place when source
first overtone and another pipe P2 open at both ends and observer are:
vibrating in its third overtone are in resonance with
(a) stationary
a given tuning fork. The ratio of lengths of P1 and P2
is: (b) moving with same velocity
(a) 1:2 (b) 1:3 (c) in relative motion
(c) 3:8 (d) 3:4 (d) None of these
83. Tube A has both ends open while tube B has one end 88. With what velocity an observer should move rela-
closed, otherwise they are identical. The ratio of fun- tive to a stationary source so that he hears a sound of
damental frequency of tube A and B is: double the frequency of source:
(a) 1:2 (b) 1:4 (a) Velocity of sound towards the source
(c) 2:1 (d) 4:1 (b) Velocity of sound away from the source
84. If the velocity of sound in air is 336 m/s. The maxi- (c) Half the velocity of sound towards the source
mum length of a closed pipe that would produce a (d) Double the velocity of sound towards the source
just audible sound will be: 89. A source of sound of frequency 256 Hz is moving rap-
(a) 3.2 cm (b) 4.2 m idly towards a wall with a velocity of 5 m/s. The speed
(c) 4.2 cm (d) 3.2 m of sound is 330 m/s. If the observer is between the
85. The extension in a string, obeying Hooke’s law, is x. wall and the source, then beats per second heard will
The speed of sound in the stretched string is v. If the be:
extension in the string is increased to 1.5x, the speed (a) 7.8 Hz (b) 7.7 Hz
of sound will be: (c) 3.9 Hz (d) 0
(a) 1.22v (b) 0.62v 90. Doppler phenomena are related with:
(c) 1.50v (d) 0.75v (a) Pitch (frequency) (b) Loudness
(c) Quality (d) Reflection
Doppler’s Effect 91. The source producing sound and an observer both
86. A man is standing on a railway platform listening are moving along the direction of propagation of
to the whistle of an engine that passes the man at sound waves. If the respective velocities of sound,
constant speed without stopping. If the engine passes source and an observer are v, vs and vo, then the
the man at time t0. How does the frequency f of the apparent frequency heard by the observer will be:
whistle as heard by the man changes with time? (n = frequency of sound)
n ( v + vo ) n ( v − vo )
(a) f (a) (b)
v − vo v − vs

n ( v − vo ) n ( v + vo )
(c) (d)
t2 t v + vs v + vs
464
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
92. Doppler shift in frequency does not depend upon: 99. Two passenger trains moving with a speed of
(a) frequency of the wave produced 108 km/h cross each other. One of them blows a
(b) velocity of the source whistle whose frequency is 750 Hz. If sound speed
(c) velocity of the observer is 330 m/s, then passengers sitting in the other train,
(d) distance from the source to the listener after trains cross each other will hear sound whose
frequency will be:
93. An observer moves towards a stationary source of
(a) 900 Hz (b) 625 Hz
sound, with a velocity one-fifth of the velocity of
sound. What is the percentage increase in the appar- (c) 750 Hz (d) 800 Hz
ent frequency? 100. If wind blows from a stationary sounding object to
(a) 5% (b) 20% a stationary listener, then the apparent frequency n’
(c) 0 (d) 0.5% and actual frequency n are related as:
(a) n′ > n (b) n′ < n
94. In the figure shown the wave speed is v. The velocity
(c) n′ = n (d) n′ > n
of car is v0. The beat frequency for the observer will
be: 101. Doppler’s effect will not be applicable when the
velocity of sound source is:
(a) Equal to that of the sound velocity
(b) Less than the velocity of sound
(c) Greater than the velocity of sound
(d) Zero
2 f 0 vv0 2 f0v 2
(a) (b)
v 2 + v02 v 2 − v02 102. A whistle of frequency 385 Hz rotates in a hori-
zontal circle of radius 50 cm at an angular speed of
2 f 0 vv0 f 0 vv0 20 rad/s. The lowest frequency heard by a listener a
(c) (d)
v 2 − v02 v 2 − v02 long distance away at rest with respect to the centre of
the circle, given velocity of sound equal to 340 m/s is:
(a) 396 Hz (b) 363 Hz
95 An observer moves towards a stationary source of
(c) 374 Hz (d) 385 Hz
sound of frequency n. The apparent frequency heard
by him is 2n. If the velocity of sound in air is 332 m/sec, 103. A sound source emits frequency of 180 Hz when
then the velocity of the observer is: moving towards a rigid wall with speed 5 m/s and an
(a) 166 m/sec (b) 664 m/sec observer is moving away from wall with speed 5 m/s.
(c) 332 m/sec (d) 1328 m/sec Both source and observer moves on a straight line
96. For which of the following cases, there will be no which is perpendicular to the wall. The number
Doppler effect? of beats per second heard by the observer will be:
(a) If source and listener, both move in the same (Speed of sound = 355 m/s)
direction with same speed. (a) 5 beats/s (b) 10 beats/s
(b) If one of the source/listener is at the centre of a (c) 6 beats/s (d) 8 beats/s
circle, while the other is moving on it. 104. An observer while going on scooter hears sound of
(c) When both the source and listener are at rest. two sirens of same frequencies from two opposite
(d) All of these directions. If he travels along the direction of one of
97. A source of sound emitting a note of frequency 200 Hz the siren, then he:
moves towards an observer with a velocity v equal (a) Listens resonance
to the velocity of sound. If the observer also moves (b) Listens beats
away from the source with the same velocity v, the (c) Will not listen sound due to destructive interfer-
apparent frequency heard by the observer is: ence
(a) 50 Hz (b) 100 Hz (d) Will listen intensive sound due to constructive
(c) 150 Hz (d) 200 Hz interference
98. Choose the false statement(s) from the following.
105. A source of sound is moving with a uniform speed
(i) Change in frequency due to Doppler effect will be
along a circle. The frequency of sound as heard by
positive if the distance between source and listener listener stationed at the centre of the path:
increases. (a) increases
(ii) Change in frequency due to Doppler effect will be (b) decreases
negative if the distance between source and listener. (c) remains the same
(a) (i) only (b) (ii) only (d) may increase and decrease alternately
(c) (i) and (ii) (d) None of these
465
 bjective Physics

106. Two trains move towards each other with the same 108. A source producing sound of frequency 170 Hz is
speed. The speed of sound is 340 m/s. If the height approaching a stationary observer with a velocity
of the tone of the whistle of one of them heard on the 17 m/s. The apparent change in the wavelength of
other changes 9/8 times, then the speed of each train sound heard by the observer is: (speed of sound in
should be: air = 340 m/s)
(a) 20 m/s (b) 2 m/s (a) 0.1 m (b) 0.2 m
(c) 200 m/s (d) 2000 m/s (c) 0.4 m (d) 0.5 m
107. A source of sound emits waves with frequency f Hz 109. A source of sound is moving with constant velocity
and speed v m/sec. Two observers move away from of 20 m/s emitting a note of frequency 1000 Hz. The
this source in opposite directions each with a speed ratio of frequencies observed by a stationary observer
0.2 v relative to the source. The ratio of frequencies while the source is approaching him and after it
heard by the two observers will be: crosses him will be: (speed of sound v = 340 m/s)
(a) 3:2 (b) 2:3 (a) 9:8 (b) 8:9
(c) 1:1 (d) 4:10 (c) 1:1 (d) 9:10

HIGH-ORDER THINKING SKILL

Wave Motion Reflection of Waves

1. A circular loop of rope of length L rotates with uni- 4. Reverberation time does not depend upon:
form angular velocity ω about an axis through its (a) temperature
centre on a horizontal smooth platform. Velocity of (b) volume of room
pulse (with respect to rope) produce due to slight (c) size of window
radial displacement is given by: (d) carpet and curtain
5. In a large room, a person receives direct sound
waves from a source 120 m away from him. He also
receives waves from the same source which reach
him, being reflected from the 25 m high celling at a
ωL point half way between them. The two waves inter-
(a) ω L (b) fere constructively for wavelength of:
2π
(a) 20, 20/3, 20/5, etc.
ωL ωL (b) 10, 5, 2.5, etc.
(c) (d)
π 4 π2 (c) 10, 20, 30, etc.
(d) 15, 25, 35, etc.
2. A transverse wave is represented by y = A sin (ωt – kx).
For what value of the wavelength is the wave veloc-
ity equal to the maximum particle velocity? Superposition of Waves
≠A
(a) (b) ≠A
2 6. Two vibrating tuning forks produce progressive
waves given by y1 = 4 sin 500πt and y 2 = 2 sin 506πt
(c) 2pA (d) A . Number of beats produced per minute is:
3. A tuning fork of frequency n0 Hz produces sound
(a) 360
wave of wavelength l0 at NTP. Choose the incorrect
plot from the following: (b) 180
(a) (b) (c) 60
(d) 3
7. A pipe of length 85 cm is closed from one end. Find
the number of possible natural oscillations of air col-
umn in the pipe whose frequencies lie below 1250 Hz.
(c) (d) The velocity of sound in air is 340 m/s.
(a) 12 (b) 8
(c) 6 (d) 4

466
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
then the frequency of horn heard by the driver of sec-
Doppler’s Effect ond car when line joining the cars make 45° angle
with the roads will be:
8. Two cars are moving on two perpendicular roads (a) 321 Hz (b) 298 Hz
towards a crossing with uniform speeds of 72 km/h and (c) 289 Hz (d) 280 Hz
36 km/h. If first car blows horn of frequency 280 Hz,

NCERT EXEMPLAR PROBLEMS

7. A sound wave is passing through air column in the
Wave Motion form of compression and rarefaction. In consecutive
compressions and rarefactions:
1. Water waves produced by a motor boat sailing in (a) density remains constant
water are: (b) Boyle’s law is obeyed
(a) neither longitudinal nor transverse (c) bulk modulus of air oscillates
(b) both longitudinal and transverse (d) there is no transfer of heat
(c) only longitudinal
(d) only transverse Reflection of Waves
2. Sound waves of wavelength l travelling in a medium
with a speed of v m/s enter into another medium 8. Equation of a plane progressive wave is given by
where its speed is 2v m/s. Wavelength of sound  x
waves in the second medium is: y = 0.6 sin 2π  t −  . On reflection from a denser
 2
(a) l
(b) l/2 medium its amplitude becomes 2/3 of the amplitude of
the incident wave. The equation of the reflected wave
(c) 2l
is:
(d) 4l
 x
3. Speed of sound wave in air: (a) y = 0.6 sin 2π  t + 
(a) is independent of temperature  2
(b) increases with pressure  x
(b) y = −0.4 sin 2π  t + 
(c) increases with increase in humidity  2
(d) decreases with increase in humidity
4. Change in temperature of the medium changes:  x
(c) y = 0.4 sin 2π  t + 
(a) frequency of sound waves  2
(b) amplitude of sound waves
 x
(c) wavelength of sound waves (d) y = −0.4 sin 2π  t − 
(d) loudness of sound waves  2
5. With propagation of longitudinal waves through a 9. A string of mass 2.5 kg is under a tension of 200 N.
medium, the quantity transmitted is: The length of the stretched string is 20.0 m. If the
(a) matter transverse jerk is struck at one end of the string, the
(b) energy disturbance will reach the other end in:
(c) energy and matter (a) 1 second
(d) energy, matter and momentum (b) 0.5 second
6. Which of the following statements are true for wave (c) 2 seconds
motion? (d) data given is insufficient
(a) Mechanical transverse waves can propagate
through all mediums. Doppler’s Effect
(b) Longitudinal waves can propagate through sol-
ids only. 10. A train whistling at constant frequency is moving
(c) Mechanical transverse waves can propagate towards a station at a constant speed V. The train goes
through solids only. past a stationary observer on the station. The frequency
(d) Longitudinal waves can propagate through vac- n′ of the sound as heard by the observer is plotted as a
uum. function of time t. Identify the expected curve:
467
 bjective Physics

n n
(a) n' (b) (c) (d) n

t t t
t

ASSERTION AND REASONS

Directions: In the following questions, a statement of assertion is followed by a statement of reason. Mark the
correct choice as:
(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.
(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.
(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Wave Motion Superposition of Waves

1. Assertion: Only longitudinal mechanical waves can
propagate in gases.
Reason: Gases have only bulk modulus.
2. Assertion: Solids can support both longitudinal and
transverse waves but only longitudinal waves can
propagate in gases.
Reason: For the propagation of transverse waves,
medium must also necessarily have the property of
rigidity.
3. Assertion: Two waves moving in a uniform string
having uniform tension cannot have different
velocities.
Reason: Elastic and inertial properties of string are
same for all waves in same string. but speed of wave
in a string does not depend on its elastic and inertial
properties only.
4. Assertion: The base of Laplace correction was that
exchange of heat between the region of compression
and rarefaction in air is negligible.
Reason: Air is bad conductor of heat and velocity of
sound in air is quite large.
Reflection of Waves
5. Assertion: The reverberation time dependent on the
volume of enclosure.
Reason: The unit of absorption coefficient is sabine.
6. Assertion: In reflection of waves, frequency
of waves remains same but their phase changes
continuously.
Reason: When same sound note is heard after
reflection from an obstacle, then it is known as
echo.
7. Assertion: Where two vibrating tuning forks having
frequencies 256 Hz and 512 Hz are held near each
other, beats cannot be heard.
Reason: The principle of superposition is valid only
if the frequencies of the oscillators are nearly equal.
8. Assertion: If a vibrating tuning fork is held near the
ear and given one full rotation, then intensity of sound
becomes maximum four times and minimum two times.
Reason: A stationary wave transmits energy.
9. Assertion: The basic of Laplace correction was that,
exchange of heat between the region of compression
and rarefaction in air is not possible.
Reason: Air is a bad conductor of heat and velocity of
sound in air is large.
10. Assertion: Beats can also be observed by two light
sources as in sound.
Reason: Light sources have constant phase deference.
Doppler’s Effect
11. Assertion: When a beetle moves along the sand
within a few tens of centimetres of a sand scorpion,
the scorpion immediately turns towards the beetle and
dashes towards it.
Reason: When a beetle disturbs the sand, it sends
pulses along the sand’s surface. One set of pulses is
longitudinal while the other set is transverse.
12. Assertion: Doppler formula for sound wave is
symmetric with respect to the speed of source and
speed of observer.
Reason: Motion of source with respect to stationary
observer is equivalent to the motion of an observer
with respect to stationary source.

468
 Waves Chapter | 15 |

ANSWER KEYS

Practice Time

1 (a) 2 (d) 3 (c) 4 (a) 5 (c) 6 (d) 7 (c) 8 (d) 9 (b) 10 (b)
11 (d) 12 (b) 13 (b) 14 (d) 15 (a) 16 (b) 17 (b) 18 (a) 19 (b) 20 (b)
21 (c) 22 (a) 23 (c) 24 (a) 25 (d) 26 (b) 27 (b) 28 (b) 29 (a) 30 (d)
31 (b) 32 (b) 33 (d) 34 (d) 35 (d) 36 (c) 37 (a) 38 (b) 39 (d) 40 (c)
41 (a) 42 (a) 43 (d) 44 (c) 45 (c) 46 (a) 47 (d) 48 (b) 49 (a) 50 (c)
51 (a) 52 (a) 53 (a) 54 (b) 55 (b) 56 (c) 57 (b) 58 (a) 59 (d) 60 (a)
61 (d) 62 (a) 63 (c) 64 (d) 65 (b) 66 (d) 67 (d) 68 (d) 69 (c) 70 (b)
71 (a) 72 (b) 73 (b) 74 (a) 75 (d) 76 (b) 77 (b) 78 (b) 79 (d) 80 (c)
81 (a) 82 (c) 83 (c) 84 (b) 85 (a) 86 (a) 87 (c) 88 (a) 89 (a) 90 (a)
91 (b) 92 (d) 93 (b) 94 (c) 95 (c) 96 (d) 97 (d) 98 (c) 99 (b) 100 (c)
101 (c) 102 (c) 103 (a) 104 (b) 105 (c) 106 (a) 107 (c) 108 (a) 109 (a)

High-Order Thinking Skill

1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (b) 4 (d) 5 (b) 6 (b) 7 (c) 8 (b)

NCERT Exemplar Problems

1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (c) 4 (c) 5 (b) 6 (c) 7 (d) 8 (b) 9 (b) 10 (c)

Assertion and Reasons

1 (a) 2 (a) 3 (d) 4 (c) 5 (b) 6 (b) 7 (c) 8 (d) 9 (c) 10 (d)
11 (a) 12 (d)

HINTS AND EXPLANATIONS

Practice Time

1 (a) Frequency of wave is a function of the source of γ RT

Velocity of sound =
waves. Therefore, it remains unchanged. M
2 (d) Longitudinal waves like sound require material When water vapour is present in air, average
medium. molecular weight of air decreases and hence
3 (c) As we know frequency, velocity increases.
p T 5 (c) The equation of progressive wave propagating in
n= the positive direction of x-axis is,
2l π r 2 ρ
1 2π
y = a sin (ωt − x )
n∝ λ
ρ or,
4 (a) As we know that, y = a sin(ωt − kx )

469
 bjective Physics

6 (d) Points B and F are in same phase because they are For a travelling wave in the x-direction,
at same point (or same distance apart).
4 × 10−3
7 (c) Sound can travel longitudinally as well as trans- y(x , t ) =
versely in solids. 8 − (x − 5t )2

8 (d) Particle velocity, 14 (d) As we know that,

v p = −v × Slope of the graph at that point T = µv 2
At point 1: Slope of the curve is positive, hence ω2
=µ
particle velocity is negative or downward k2
At point 2: Slope negative, hence particle velocity (2π / 0.004)2
is positive or upwards = 0.04
(2π / 0.50)2
At point 3: Again slope of the curve is positive,
= 6.25 N
hence particle velocity is negative or downward
15 (a) Mach number is the ratio of the speed of a body to
9 (b) As we know that,
the speed of sound
If, ρH = 1
Speed of body
4 × 1 + 1 × 16 = Mach No.
then, ρ mix = Speed of sound
(4 + 1)
=4 16 (b) Standard equation,
v mix ρH ω 
= y(x , t ) = A cos  x − ωt 
vH ρmix  v 
1 From any of the displacement equation. So, y1
=
4
ω
1 = 0.50π
= v
2
and,
v
v mix = H ω = 100π
2
1224 100π
= ∴ = 0.5π
2 v
= 612 m / s ∴ v=
100π
10 (b) Frequency of wave: 10 Hz 0. 5π
Maximum particle speed: 0.4π = 200 m / s
Speed of wave: 2 m/s
17 (b) Fundamental frequency,
Wavelength of wave: 0.2 m
11 (d) Inertia, elasticity, and low resistance are proper- 1 T
f =
ties of a medium necessary for wave propagation. 2 µ
12 (b) Given that, 1 T  T m
=  v = and µ = 
y = A sin2 (kx − ωt ) 2 A ρ  µ  
A Also,
⇒ y= [1 − cos 2(kx − ωt )]
2 T
ω ′ = 2ω Y=
A∆
2πv ′ = 2ω T Y ∆
⇒ =
ω A 
v′ =
π 1 γ∆
⇒ f = ...(i)
13 (b) As we know that, 2 ρ
y(x , t ) = f (x − vt )
∆l
y = (x , 0) Putting the value of , , ρ and γ in eq. (i) we

4 × 10−3
= get,
8 − x2
470
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
Therefore, the frequency of wave varies directly
2 103
f = × with speed of wave.
7 3
or , f ≈ 178.2 Hz Frequencies, nu ≥ na ≥ ni

18 (a) Velocity of sound in a gas is, Therefore, speeds of waves vu ≥ va ≥ vi

v = γP / ρ 27 (b) Since A is moving upwards, therefore, after an

elemental time interval the wave will be as shown
Where, dotted in following figure. It means, the wave
1 2 is travelling leftward. Therefore, option (a) is
P = ρ vrms
3 wrong.
vrms = 3P / ρ B
v γ A C
∴ =
vrms 3 o
x
19 (b) The position of such a wave changes in two-
dimensional plane with time.
Displacement amplitude of the wave means maxi-
20 (b) As we know that, mum possible displacement of medium particles
γP due to propagation of the wave, which is equal to
v= the displacement at B at the instant shown in fig.
ρ
Hence (b) is correct.
=
E From figure, it is clear that C is moving down-
ρ wards at this instant. Hence (c) is wrong.
The phase difference between two points will be
21 (c) A wave is a disturbance that travels or propagates
equal to π/2 if distance between them is equal to
and transports energy and momentum without the
l/4. Between A and C, the distance is less than l/2.
transport of matter.
It may be equal to l/4. Hence, phase difference
22 (a) As we know that, between these two points may be equal to π/2.
v max = aω 28 (b) According to Laplace when sound propagate in a
= 0.1 × 2π × 300 gaseous medium the compressions and rarefactions
= 60π cms −1 are formed periodically at a very high speed. Some
heat is produced at the places of compressions and
23 (c) Speed of a transverse wave in a stretched string,
some heat is lost at the places of rarefactions, but
T there is no transfer of heat between the compres-
v=
µ sions and rarefactions in the gaseous medium.
Speed of transverse wave on a stretched string 29 (a) Given that,
does not depend upon the frequency of the wave. y1 = a sin(ωt + kx + 0.57)
y2 = a cos(ωt + kx )
24 (a) Laplace assumed that propagation of sound wave
in gas is an adiabatic process. Therefore, accord- π 
= a sin  + (ωt + kx )
ing to Laplace, speed of sound in a gas is given by,  2 
γP Phase difference,
v=
ρ ∆φ = φ2 − φ1
γ RT π
= = − 0.57
m 2
3.14
25 (d) The displacement of the points B and F are = − 0.57
equal in magnitude and sign. So these points 2
are in same phase. = 1.57 − 0.57
= 1 radian
26 (b) Speed of wave is given by, v = nλ
v 30 (d) The phase determines the displacement of the
so, frequency of wave, n = wave of any position and at any instant.
λ
471
 bjective Physics

31 (b) On reflection at a denser medium, change of phase 38 (b) A tuning fork produces 4 beats/sec with another
= π (radian) tuning fork of frequency 288 cps. From this infor-
mation we can conclude that the frequency of
32 (b) A phase reversal of π means there is reversal of
unknown fork is 288 + 4 cps or 288-4 cps, i.e.,
particle velocity.
292 cps or 284 cps. When a little wax is placed on
33 (d) A y = A sin(kx − ωt ) for the wave progressing the unknown fork, it produces 2 beats/sec. When
along the x-axis and for the reflected wave, a little wax is placed on the unknown fork, its fre-
quency decreases and simultaneously the beat fre-
y ′ = A sin(kx + ωt )
quency decreases confirming that the frequency
But the position of the rigid wall is at x = 0. of the unknown fork is 292 cps.
For the given wave, its reflected wave,
39 (d) For producing beats, there must be small differ-
y ′ = − A sin(kx + ωt )
ence in frequency.
34 (d) Given that,
40 (c) For closed organ pipe, n1 : n2 : n3 … = 1 : 3 : 5 : …
A1 = A,
A2 = A, 41 (a) Whenever two waves having the same fre-
quency travel with the same speed along the
φ = 120°
same direction in a specific medium, then they
The amplitude of the resultant wave is, superpose and create an effect termed as the
interference of waves.
AR = A12 + A22 + 2 A1 A2 cos φ
Where two waves having similar frequencies
= A2 + A2 + 2 AA cos120° move with the same speed along opposite direc-
 1 tions in a specific medium, then they superpose to
= A2 + A2 − A2  cos120° = −  produce stationary waves.
 2
When two waves having slightly varying frequen-
= AR cies travel with the same speed along the same direc-
=A tion in a specific medium, they superpose to produce
35 (d) Path difference, beats.
∆x = S2 P − S1P 42 (a) Persistence of hearing is 1/10 s.
v
= (2 10 )2 + 32 − 42 + 32 43 (d) Fundamental frequency of open organ pipe =
2l
=7−5
3v
=2 m Frequency of third harmonic of closed pipe =
4l
For constructive interference,
According to the given condition,
∆x = nλ ,
3v v
where, n = 1, 2, 3, … ∴ = 100 +
4l 2l
nv 3v 2v
⇒ f = ⇒ 100 = −
∆x 4l 4l
1 × 340 2 × 340 3 × 340 3v − 2v
= , , ,... 100 =
2 2 2 4l
= 170 Hz, 340 Hz, 510 Hz or,
v
36 (c) According to the given condition, = 100
4l
nQ = 341 ± 3 v
⇒ = 200
= 344 Hz or 338 Hz 2l

On waxing Q, the number of beats decreases. 44 (c) The intensity of wave,

I = 2π 2 a 2n2 ρ v
So that, nQ = 344 Hz
∴ I ∝ a 2 ∝ n2
37 (a) Due to rise in temperature, the speed of sound
v Therefore, the intensity of a wave depends upon
increases. Since n = and l remains unchanged, both, its frequency and amplitude.
λ
hence n increases. 45 (c) The contrast will be maximum, when I1 = I2, i.e.,
a = b. In that case,
472
 Waves Chapter | 15 |

I min = (a − b)2 52 (a) For shortest length of pipe mode of vibration must
be fundamental,
=0
v
where a and b are the amplitudes of interfering n=
waves. 4l
v
46 (a) As we know that, ⇒ l=
4n
n = n1 − n2
53 (a) There are four nodes present.
v v
10 = −
2l1 2l2
v 1 1  N N N N
=  − 
2  l1 l2 
54 (b) Distance between two consecutive nodes,
v 1 1 
10 =  − λ
2  0.25 0.255  = 46 − 16
2
⇒ v = 255 m / s λ
47 (d) As we know that, = 30
2
Displacement node: locations where particles ⇒λ = 60 cm = 0.6 m
have zero displacement.
∴ v = nλ
Displacement antinode: locations where particles
have maximum displacement. = 500 × 0.6
Pressure node: locations where pressure/density = 300 m / s
do not vary. 55 (b) According to the condition,
Pressure antinode: locations where pressure/den-
sity have maximum variations. v v
3× = 4×
48 (b) Distance between six successive node, 4lc 2l0
so,
5λ
= 85 cm lc 3v 2 3
2 = × =
2 × 85 l0 4 4v 8
λ=
5 56 (c) Given that,
= 34 cm
λ1 = 2l
= 0.34 m
λ2 = 2l + 2∆l
Therefore speed of sound in gas, So,
= nλ v
= 1000 × 0.34 n1 =
2l
= 340 m / s and
49 (a) Standing waves are produced when two waves v
n2 =
propagate in opposite direction. As z1 and z2 are 2(l + ∆l )
propagating in +ve x-axis and -ve x-axis. so, z1 No. of beats = n1 − n2
and z2 will represent a standing wave.
v 1 1 
=  −
50 (c) Frequency of pth harmonic, 2  l l + ∆l 
pv v∆l
n= = 2
2l 2l
2ln
⇒ p= 57 (b) As we know that,
v
2 × 0.33 × 1000 1 T  1
v=  v ∝ l 
=
330 2l m  
=2 1 1 1
51 (a) Frequency does not depend upon radius. As length ∴ l1 : l2 : l3 = : :
1 2 3
is doubled, fundamental frequency becomes half. =6:3:2

473
 bjective Physics

58 (a) Maximum pressure at closed end will be atmos-  1 1

pheric pressure adding with acoustic wave pressure, ⇒ 16 = 300  − 
 l2 1 
So, ρmax = ρ A + ρ0
⇒ l2 = 94.9 cm
and ρmin = ρ A − ρ0
66 (d) Given that,
ρ max ρ A + ρ0
Thus = Frequency of sound produced by siren, f = 800 Hz
ρ min ρ A − ρ0 Speed of observer, u = 2 m/s
59 (d) Frequencies of sound produced from an organ pipe Velocity of sound, v = 320 m/s
open at both ends are even and odd harmonics. No. of extra waves received by the observer per
second = ±4λ
60 (a) Fundamental frequency of open pipe is double
2  2
that of the closed pipe. ∴ No. of beats/sec = −  − 
λ  λ
61 (d) Third overtone has a frequency 7n, which means, 4
=
7λ λ
L= 2×2  v
4 = λ = 
= three full loops + one half loop 320  f
which would make four nodes and four antinodes. 800
2 × 2 × 800
=
62 (a) No. of loops in longitudinal mode, 320
= 10
6
=3 3v
2 67 (d) First overtone for closed pipe =
4l
63 (c) Given that,
First over tone of closed pipe = First over tone of v
open pipe Fundamental frequency for open pipe =
2l
 v   v 
3  = 2  
 4l1   2l2  2v
First overtone for open pipe =
2l
where,
l1 and l2 are the lengths of closed and open organ 68 (d) As we know that,
pipes respectively. 1 T
n=
l1 3 2 µ
=
l2 4 n2  1 T2
∴ =
64 (d) Figure (a) represents a harmonic wave of fre- n1  2 T1
quency 7.0 Hz, figure (b) represents a harmonic  44 
T1 +  T1
wave of frequency 5.0 Hz. 1  100 
Therefore, beat frequency, = ×
 40  T1
 1 − 100  1 
vs = 7 − 5  
= 2.0 Hz 100 12
= × =2:1
60 10
v 69 (c) When the vessel is partially filled with water, its
65 (b) For first pipe, n1 =
4l1 length decreases. Therefore, the frequency increases.
70 (b) From the equation y( x , t ) = 2a sin kx cos ωt the
v position of nodes (where amplitude is zero) are
and for second pipe, n2 = given by
4l2
sinkx = 0
So, number of beats, or, kx = nπ
Where n = 0, 1, 2, 3, …..
n2 − n1 = 4
71 (a) Fundamental frequency of open pipe,
v 1 1
⇒ 4=  −  v
4  l2 l1  n1 =
2l
330
474
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
2l
330 v
= nclosed =
2 × 0. 3 4lclosed
= 550 Hz v v  lopen 
We get, =  lclosed = 
First harmonic, 4l closed / 2 2l open  2 
= 2 × n1
Frequency remains unchanged
= 1100 Hz = 1.1 kHz 77 (b) Maximum number of beats,
72 (b) Fundamental frequency of closed organ pipe = ( f + 1) − ( f − 1) = 2
v 78 (b) For closed pipe second note,
vc = 3v
4lc =
4l
Fundamental frequency of open organ pipe, 3 × 330
=
v 4 × 1. 5
v0 =
2l0 = 165 Hz
Second overtone frequency of open organ pipe, 79 (d) As number of beats/sec = difference in frequen-
3v cies has to be less than 10, therefore
=
2l0 0 < ( n1 − n2 ) < 10
From question, 80 (c) As we know that,
v 3v v
= nclosed =
4lc 2l0 4l
⇒ l0 = 6lc = 120 cm v
n open =
73 (b) For closed pipe, 2l
v So that,
n1 =
4l =n open 2= n closed 2f
330 81 (a) Total length of string,  =  1 +  2 +  3
= Hz
4
Second note, (As string is divided into three segments)
= 3n1 As we know that,
3 × 330 1  1 T 
= Hz Frequency ∝ ∵ f = 
4 Length  2ℓ µ 
74 (a) In a standing wave energy of one region is always 1 1 1 1
So, = + +
confined in that region. All particles cross their n n1 n2 n3
mean position together.
3v
75 (d) In case of closed organ pipe frequency, 82 (c) First overtone of closed organ pipe, n1 =
v 340 4l1
fn = (2n + 1) = (2nH ) ×
4l 4 × (.85) 4v
Third overtone of open organ pipe, n2 =
for, 2l2
n = 0, f 0 = 100 Hz According to the condition,
n = 1, f1 = 300 Hz n1 = n2
n = 2, f 2 = 500 Hz
3v 4v
n = 3, f 3 = 700 Hz ⇒ =
4l1 2l2
n = 4, f 4 = 900 Hz
l 3
n = 5, f 5 = 1100 Hz ⇒ 1 =
l2 8
n = 6, f 6 = 1300 Hz
Hence possible natural oscillation whose frequen- 83 (c) From the condition,
cies < 1250 Hz (n = 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) λA 1
=
76 (b) As we know that, λB 2
v
nopen = n 2
2lopen ⇒ A =
nB 1
v
475
 bjective Physics

 v − v0 
2n = n  
A= λA =2L  v −0 
v0 = −v
= −(Speed of sound)
B= 89 (a) The observer will hear two sound, one directly
λB =4L from source and other from reflected image of
84 (b) As we know that minimum audible frequency is sound,
20 Hz.
v
f =
4l
v
20 =
4l
336
⇒ l= = 4.2 m Hence number of beats heard per second,
4 × 20
85 (a) According to Hooke’s law,  v   v  2nvv S
 n −  n = 2 2
FR ∝ x  v − vS   v + vS  v − vS
2 × 256 × 330 × 5
[Restoring force FR = T , tension of spring ] =
335 × 325
= 7.8 Hz
T
Velocity of sound by a stretched string, v = 90 (a) The pitch depends on the frequency of the sound
µ
wave.
v∝ T 91 (b) If the source and the observer move along the same
direction, the equation for apparent frequency is,
or ,
n ( v − vo )
v T
= v − vs
v’ T’
T’ 92 (d) Doppler shift in frequency does not depend upon
v’= v the distance from the source to the listener.
T
1. 5 x 93 (b) When observer moves towards stationary source
=v = 1.22 v then apparent frequency,
x
86 (a) When the train is approaching the stationary  v + v0 
n′ =  n
observer frequency heard by the observer,  v 
v + v0 v + v / 5
n′ = n n′ =  n
v  v 
When the train is approaching the stationary n = 1.2n
observer frequency heard by the observer, Increment in frequency = 0.2 n; so, percentage
change in frequency,
v − v0
n′′ = n 0.2n
v = × 100
n
It is clear that n′ and n′′ are constant and inde-
= 20 %
pendent of time. Also and n′ > n′′.
94 (c) As we know that,
87 (c) These apparent change in frequency due to motion
f0v
of source and observer relative to the medium f2 =
along the line of sight is called Doppler’s effect. v + v0
88 (a) As we know that, The wave which reaches wall f1 is reflected.
 v  f0v
n′ = n   f1 =
v − v0
 v − vS 
According to the given condition, The reflected frequency f1 is as the wall is at rest.
476
 Waves Chapter | 15 |

Beats = f1 − f 2 Frequency heard by observer after reflection,

fv fv  355   355 − 5 
= 0 − 0 f2 =  ×   × 180 = 180 Hz
v − v0 v + v0  355 − 5   355 
2 f vv f 2 − f1 = 5 Hz
= 2 0 02
v − v0 104 (b) An observer while going on scooter hears sound
of two sirens of same frequencies from two oppo-
95 (c) As we know that,
site directions. If he travels along the direction of
 v + v0  one of the siren, then he listens beats.
n′ = n  
 v  105 (c) The apparent frequency remains the same because
According to the condition, distance between the source and observer does
not change.
 v + v0 
⇒ 2n = n   106 (a) Given that,
 v 
v + v0 9
⇒ =2 v′ = v
v 8
⇒ v0 = v = 332 m / sec Source and observer are moving in opposite direc-
96 (d) In all these cases there will be no Doppler effect tion. Therefore, apparent frequency
(i) If source and listener, both move in the same (v + u)
direction with same speed. v′ = v ×
(v − u)
(ii) If one of the source/listener is at the centre of a
circle, while the other is moving on it. 9 340 + u
⇒ v =v×
(iii) When both the source and listener are at rest. 8 340 − u
97 (d) Since there is no relative motion between observer 340
⇒ u= = 20 m / sec
and source, therefore there is no apparent change 17
in frequency. 107 (c) Both listeners, hears the same frequencies.
98 (c) Change in frequency has nothing to do with dis-
tance between source and listener. 108 (a) As we know that,
99 (b) As we know that, v 340
λ= = =2m
 v − v0  n 170
n′ = n   340
 v + vs  and, n′ = × 170
340 − 17
 5  n′ = 178.9 Hz
 330 − 180 × 18 
= 750   = 625 Hz v
 330 + 108 × 5  Now, λ ′ =
n′
 18  340
100 (c) Frequency is not affected by blowing of wind so = = 1.9 m
178.9
long as source and listener are stationary. ⇒ λ − λ ′ = 2 − 1 . 9 = 0. 1 m
101 (c) Doppler effect is applicable only when the veloci-
109 (a) When source is approaching the observer, the fre-
ties of source and observer are less as compared
quency heard,
to the velocity of sound.
102 (c) Velocity of source,  v 
na =  ×n
v s = rω  v − vs 
= 0.50 × 20  340 
=  × 1000= 1063 Hz
= 10 ms −1  340 − 20 
v When source is receding, the frequency heard,
n′ = n
v + vs  v 
nr =  ×n
=
340 × 385
= 374 Hz  v + vs 
340 + 10 340
103 (a) Frequency heard by observer directly coming = × 1000 = 944
340 + 20
from source,
Then the ratio,
355 − 5
f1 = × 180 ⇒ na : nr = 9 : 8
355 + 5
= 175 Hz
477
 bjective Physics

High-Order Thinking Skill

1 (b) From the figure, This implies graph of l versus √T will be a

straight line passing through origin. Hence, graph
(a) is correct.
Squaring the equation (i),
dθ/2 λ 2 ∝ T which is an equation of parabola. Hence,
T T graph (c) is correct.
dθ 4 (d) The time for which sound continues to be heard
= dm ⋅ ω 2 R
2T sin
2 after the source has stopped producing sound is
dθ m called reverberation time. According to Sabine’s
2T = Rdq ⋅ ω 2 R
2 L formula the reverberation time of a hall is given by,
mω 2 R 2
T= 24(ln10)V
L RT60 =
c20 Sa
T
∴ v= Where,
µ
RT60 is the reverberation time (to drop 60 dB)
T
= V is the volume of the room
m/L c20 is the speed of sound at 20°C (room temperature)
= ωR
Sa is the total absorption in sabins
where 2πR R=L In particular, reverberation time of a hall is
ωL adjusted by providing a few open windows, cov-
∴ v=
2π ering the walls with absorbing materials.
2 (c) Given that, 5 (b) The path difference,
y = A sin(ωt − kx )
Particle velocity,
65
dy m m
vp = 65
dt 25 m
= Aω cos(ωt − kx )
∴ v p max = Aω P 60 m 60 m Q

ω ∆x = 2 × 65 − 2 × 60
Wave velocity =
k = 60 m
ω
∴ Aω = For constructive interference,
k
1 ∆x = 10
i.e., A= = nλ
k
2π 10
But k= ∴ λ=
λ n
∴ λ = 2πA For n = 1, 2, 3, ……,
3 (b) For a tuning fork, its frequency is constant. But λ = 10, 5, 2.5
as the temperature increases, velocity of sound Here, ceiling acts as free boundary, so do not add
waves produced will increase. phase difference due to reflection.
v∝ T
6 (b) Given that,
∴ n0 λ ∝ T
y1 = 4 sin 500πt
This implies n0 versus √T will be a straight line and, y2 = 2 sin 506πt
passing through origin. Hence graph (d) is correct.
Also, Equation of progressive wave is given by,
y = A sin2πft
n0 = constant
Comparing the given equations with equation of
⇒ λ∝ T ...(i)
progressive wave, we get
478
 Waves Chapter | 15 |
0.855 4
2 f1 = 500 ⇒ 2n − 1 ≤ 12.5
⇒ f1 = 250 ≈6
2 f 2 = 506 8 (b) Given that,
⇒ f 2 = 253 v A = 72 km / h
So, as we know that, = 20 m / s
Beats = f 2 − f1 v B = 36 km / h
= 253 − 250 = 10 m / s
= 3 beats/sec According to the condition,
= 3 × 60 beats/min
= 180 beats/min
7 (c) Given that,
velocity of sound in air, v = 340 m/s
Length of the pipe, l = 85 cm
= 0.85 m
Frequency of oscillations of air column in closed
organ pipe is given by,
(2n − 1)v  v + v B cos 45° 
f = ∴ f′ = f ° 
4l  v − v A cos 45 
From the condition,  340 + 10 / 2 
∴ f ′ = 280 
(2n − 1)v  340 − 20 / 2 
≤ 1250  
4l = 298 Hz
(2n − 1) × 340
⇒ ≤ 1250
0. 85 × 4
⇒ 2n − 1 ≤ 12.5

NCERT Exemplar Problems

1 2
1 (b) Water waves produced by a motorboat sailing v 
on the surface of deep water are both longitudi- ⇒ λ2 =  2  λ1
nal and transverse because the waves, produce  v1 
transverse as well as lateral vibrations in the l1 and l2 are wavelength and v1 and v2 are speeds
particles of the medium. The water molecules in first and second medium respectively.
at the surface move up and down; and back and  2v 
λ2 =   λ1
forth simultaneously describing nearly circular  v 
paths as shown in figure. = 2λ1
Direction of
wave travel
So that the wavelength of sound waves in the sec-
ond medium is 2l.
3 (c) As we know that the speed of sound in air is
water partical Transverse given by,
moves on component
circular path
Longitudinal γP
component v=
ρ
As the wave passes, water molecules at the crests
move in the direction of the wave while those at For air γ and P are constant
the troughs move in the opposite direction. Waves 1
v∝
on the surface of water are known as ripples. ρ
2 (c) Frequency remains unchanged in both medium,
f1 = f 2 Where, ρ is the density of air
v v v ρ1
⇒ 1 = 2 ⇒ 2 =
λ1 λ2 v1 ρ2
479
 bjective Physics

Where ρ1 is density of dry air and ρ2 is density of 2

moist air. Due to the presence of moisture, density New amplitude = × 0.6 = 0.4
3
of air decreases.
After reflection, wave will travel along negative
As ρ2 < ρ1
x-direction,
So that, v2 > v1 Equation of reflected wave is,
So, the speed of sound in air increases with
 x 
increase in humidity. y = 0.4 sin 2π t + + π 
 2 
4 (c) Change in temperature of the medium changes the
 x
speed of sound wave. As we know that, speed of = −0.4 sin 2π  t +  ( sin(π + θ ) = − sinθ )
γ RT  2
sound is v =
M 9 (b) As we know the speed of transverse waves in any
Where, γ, R and M are constant. So, string,
v∝ T T
v=
That means when temperature changes, speed µ
will also change.
Where µ = mass per unit length
As v = f λ
Mass m = 2.5 kg and length l = −20 m
Where, f is frequency and l is wavelength. As fre- m 2.5 kg
µ= =
quency is fixed. l 20
So, v ∝ λ or λ ∝ v 1.25
= = 0.125 kg / m
10
Hence, the wavelength of sound wave changes. Hence wave speed
5 (b) Propagation of longitudinal waves through a
T 200
medium lead to transmission of energy through v= =
the medium without matter being transmitted. µ 0.125
There is no movement of matter (mass) and hence = 1600 m / s = 40m / s
momentum. Time taken by the disturbance to travel from one
6 (c) When mechanical transverse wave propagates end to the other end of the string, i.e., to travel a
through a medium, the constituent of the medium distance of 20 m is
oscillate perpendicular to wave motion causing 20 m
change in shape. That is, each element of the t=
40 m / s
medium is subjected to sharing stress. Solids and
= 0. 5 s
strings have shear modulus, that is, why they sus-
tain shearing stress. 10 (c) Let the original frequency of the source by f0. Let
Fluids have no shape of their own, they yield to the speed of sound wave in the medium be v as
shearing stress. This is why transverse waves are observer is stationary and train is approaching.
possible in solids and strings but not in fluids. Apparent frequency,
7 (d) (a) Due to compression and rarefactions, density  v 
of the medium (air) changes. At compressed fa =   f0
regions, density is maximum and at rarefac-  v − vs 
tions density is minimum.  v 
=  f0
(b) As density changes, so Boyle’s law is not
 v − vs 
obeyed.
(c) Bulk modulus remains same. ⇒ fa > f0
(d) The time of compression and rarefaction is When train is going away from the observer,
too small, i.e., we can assume adiabatic pro- Apparent frequency,
cess and hence no transfer of heat takes place.
 v 
8 (b) On reflection from denser medium, there is a fa =   f0
phase reversal of 180°.  v − vs 
Now, ⇒ fa < f0

480

Assertion and Reasons
1 (a) Gases cannot withstand a shearing stress or lon-
gitudinal stress. Hence, they do not have shear
modulus and Young’s modulus; they have only
bulk modulus.
2 (a) Solids have shear modulus. They can sustain
shearing stress. Since fluids do not have any
definite shape, they yield to shearing stress. The
propagation of a transverse wave is such that it
produces shearing stress in a medium. The propa-
gation of such a wave is possible only in solids,
and not in gases. Both solids and fluids have their
respective bulk moduli. They can sustain com-
pressive stress. Hence, longitudinal waves can
propagate through solids and fluids.
3 (d) Two waves moving in uniform string with uni-
form tension shall have same speed and may be
moving in opposite directions. Hence, both waves
may have velocities in opposite direction. Hence,
assertion is false.
Elastic and inertial properties of string are same
for all waves in same string. Moreover speed of
wave in a string depends on its elastic and inertial
properties only.
4 (c) Laplace assumed adiabatic process during sound
propagation.
5 (b) Reverberation is the phenomenon of persistence
of sound after it has been stopped as a result of
multiple reflections from surfaces.
According to Sabine’s formula the reverberation
time of a hall is given by,
24(ln10)V
RT60 =
c20 Sa
Where,
RT60 is the reverberation time (to drop 60 dB)
V is the volume of the room
c20 is the speed of sound at 20°C (room tempera-
ture)
Sa is the total absorption in sabins
6 (b) Frequency of waves remains same but their phase
changes continuously in reflection of waves.
When same sound note is heard after reflection
from an obstacle, then it is known as echo.
7 (c) The principle of superposition does not state that
the frequencies of the oscillation should be nearly
Waves Chapter | 15 |
equal. For beats to be heard the condition is that
difference in frequencies of the two oscillations
should not be more than 10 times per seconds for a
normal human ear to recognise it. Hence we cannot
hear beats in the case of two tuning forks vibrating
at frequencies 256 Hz and 512 Hz respectively.
8 (d) When a tuning fork is given one full rotation, then
intensity of sound becomes maximum four times
and minimum four times. A stationary wave does
not transmit energy.
9 (c) According to Laplace, the changes in pressure
and volume of a gas, when sound waves propa-
gated through it, are not isothermal, but adiabatic.
A gas is a bad conductor of heat. It does not allow
the free exchange of heat between compressed
layer, rarefied layer and surrounding.
10 (d) As emission of light from atom is a random and
rapid phenomenon. The phase at a point due to
two independent light sources will change rap-
idly and randomly. Therefore, instead of beats,
we shall get uniform intensity. However if light
sources are LASER beams of nearly equal fre-
quencies, it may possible to observe the phe-
nomenon of beats in light.
11 (a) The sand scorpion uses waves of both transverse
and longitudinal motion to locate its prey. When
a beetle even slightly disturbs the sand, it sends
pulses along the sand’s surface. One set of pulses
is longitudinal, travelling with speed vL. A sec-
ond set is transverse travelling with speed vT. The
scorpion with its eight legs spread roughly in a
circle intercepts the faster longitudinal pulses first
and learns the direction of the beetle. It is in direc-
tion of whichever leg is disturbed earliest by the
pulses. The scorpion then senses the time interval
(Δt) between the first interception and the inter-
ception of the slower transverse waves and uses it
to determine the distance d to the beetle.
d d
∆t = −
vT v L
which gives the scorpion a perfect fix on the beetle.
12 (d) In Doppler effect for sound wave effect due to
observer and source motion are different.
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