Waves
4 marks · EasyA student is learning about wave properties with a slinky spring and a light ray box.
State the unit for each of the following quantities:
| Quantity | Unit |
|---|---|
| Angle | |
| Wave frequency | |
| Wavelength |
Explain what is meant by the term 'wavefront'.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
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(a) — · must show angle: degree (°), wave frequency: hertz (Hz), wavelength: metre (m)
(b) A wavefront is a line where all the particles of the wave are at the same phase and distance from the source. · must show wavefront definition with 'same phase' or 'same distance from source'
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Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correct unit for angle: degree (°)
B2 (a) · 1 mark · Correct unit for frequency: hertz (Hz)
B3 (a) · 1 mark · Correct unit for wavelength: metre (m)
B4 (b) · 1 mark · Clear definition of wavefront—must mention 'same phase' or 'same point in cycle' or 'same distance from source'.
Worked solution
| Quantity | Unit |
|---|---|
| Angle | degree (°) |
| Wave frequency | hertz (Hz) |
| Wavelength | metre (m) |
A wavefront is a line where all vibrations or oscillations in a wave are in phase, i.e., at the same distance from the source or at the same point in the wave cycle.