WAVES

1. Find the ratio of velocity of sound in hydrogen gas (γ = 5/3) at the same temperature. Given
that molecular weights of hydrogen and helium are 2 and 4 respectively.
2. For a steel rod, the young’s modulus of elasticity is 2.9 × 1011 N/m2 and density is 8 × 103
kg/m3. Find the velocity of the longitudinal waves in the steel rod.
3. A transverse harmonic wave on a string is described by
y(x, t) = 3.0 sin (36 t + 0.018 x + π/4)
where x and y are in cm and t in s. The positive direction of x is from left to right.
(a) Is this a travelling wave or a stationary wave? If it is travelling, what are the speed and
direction of its propagation ?
(b) What are its amplitude and frequency?
(c) What is the initial phase at the origin?
(d) What is the least distance between two successive crests in the wave?

4. Distinguish between transverse waves and longitudinal waves.

5. Distinguish between stationary waves and progressive waves
6. On the basis of dimensional considerations, write the formula for the speed of transverse
waves on a stretched string.
7. On the basis of dimensional considerations, write the formula for the speed of transverse
waves in a solid.
8. Derive Newtons formula for speed of sound in an ideal gas. What is laplace correction?
9. An organ pipe produces a fundamental frequency of 128 Hz. When blown forcefully, it
produces first overtone of 384 Hz. Is the pipe open or closed?
10. What is the exact speed of light in vacuum?