Measuring wave velocity (AQA GCSE Physics): Flashcards

Echo method & microphone/oscilloscope method

Sound bounces back from walls

Double the distance (to wall and back)

$\text{speed} = \frac{\text{distance}}{\text{time}}$

$\text{wave speed} = \text{frequency} \times \text{wavelength}$

2 microphones, oscilloscope, loudspeaker

One wavelength apart

Shallow tank, vibrating paddle, strobe light

Freezes waves to measure wavelength accurately

Better accuracy & reduce measurement errors

m/s (metres per second)