The diagram shows the cross-section of a progressive transverse wave travelling at 24 cm s⁻¹ on water - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 16 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 16
The diagram shows the cross-section of a progressive transverse wave travelling at 24 cm s⁻¹ on water. The amplitude of the wave is 2.0 cm and the frequency is 4.0 H... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows the cross-section of a progressive transverse wave travelling at 24 cm s⁻¹ on water - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 16 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
The phase difference between particles at P and S is $\frac{\pi}{2}$ rad.
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Answer
In a transverse wave, the phase difference between two points can be determined by their relative positions on the wave. Since P and S are on consecutive peaks of the wave pattern, the phase difference between them is zero, not 2π rad.
Step 2
The distance between P and R is 6.0 cm.
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Answer
The distance between P and R is indeed not 6.0 cm, as R is located one quarter of the wavelength away from P. The full wavelength can be calculated from speed and frequency, but the distance given is inaccurate.
Step 3
The particle velocity at Q is a maximum.
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Answer
At point Q, which corresponds to the crest of the wave, the particle velocity is indeed at a maximum because it is at the equilibrium position when the particles are moving the fastest during their oscillation.
Step 4
Particles at P and R are in phase.
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Answer
Particles P and R are not in phase; they are separated by a quarter wavelength. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.
