.

Physics Module Form 5

1.1

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

U N D E R S T A N D I N G

W A V E S

What is meant by a wavefront

An imaginary line that joins all the points on the crest of a wave.

State the direction of propagation of

waves in relation to wavefronts

The direction of propagation of a wave is perpendicular to its

wavefront.

What is transverse wave?

A transverse wave is a wave in which particles of the medium

oscillate in the direction of the propagation of the waves.
Water waves and electromagnetic waves are examples of
this type of waves.
A longitudinal wave is a wave which the particles of the medium

What is longitudinal wave?

oscillate in the direction parallel to the direction in which the

wave moves
Sound waves is the example of this type of waves.
Fill in the blank with the correct answer given below
frequency

period

Hertz ( Hz)

amplitude

1. The
amplitude of an oscillation is the maximum displacement for one complete
oscillation .
2. The

period

of the oscillation is the time taken to complete one oscillation.

3. The frequency of the oscillation is the number of complete oscillation made in one
second. The SI unit is Hertz ( Hz)
Label the graph below and fill in the blank with correct answer.
Displacement time graph

4. In the displacement time graph as shown above, amplitude is represented by the symbol
of
a
and period is represented by the symbol of
T

1-1

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Displacement distance graph

5. In the displacement distance graph as shown above, amplitude is represented by the symbol of
a
and wavelength is represented by the symbol of

6. Damping is occur when in an oscillating system when the system loses

( gain /
loses) energy to surrounding in the form of
heat ( heat / chemical ) energy.
7. The force responsible for damping is called dissipative ( equilibrium / dissipative)

forces.

8. In a simple pendulum, its natural frequency depending on its

mass ).

( length /

length

9. When an oscillating systems driven at its natural frequency, the system is said to be at
reasonance
( damping / reasonance)

10. A wave travels with a speed of 3.0 x 108 ms-1

(a) What is the frequency of the wave if its wave length is 1.0 m?
(b) Another wave is travelling with the same speed but has a frequency of 1.5 x 1012 Hz.
What is the wavelength of the wave?

Wave speed , v = f

Solution.
8

(b) = v / f
= 3.0 x 108
1.5 x 1012

(a) f = 3.0 x 10
1.0

= 3.0 x 108 Hz

= 2.0 x 10 -4 m

1-2

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

11. The displacement time graphs and displacement distance graph describe the motion of a
particular wave. Determine the speed of the wave.
a) Displacement time graph
(b) Displacement distance graph
S/cm

S/c
m

t/s
2

solution :
v = f ,

f=1/T
from (b) : = 4 cm

from (a) : T = 4 s,
f = 0.25 Hz
v=f

= 0.25 x 4
= 1 cm s-1

12.
Displacement/cm

5
3

-5

2
Distance/cm

Based in the displacement-distance graph of a wave, find

(a) the amplitude
(b) the wavelength of the wave
( ans : 5 cm)
( ans : 2 cm)

13. Calculate the frequency of the given wave below

f = 1/T
= 1/4
= 0.25 Hz.
1-3

l/cm

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Practise 1.1
1.

4. The period of oscillations of a simple

pendulum increases when the
________________________ increases.
A length of the pendulum
B mass of the bob of the pendulum
C acceleration due to gravity

Diagram 1.11
Base on the diagram 1.11 above, which
distance represents the amplitude?

5. Diagram 1.14 shows a wavefront pattern

produces by a dipper vibrating at a frequency
of 12 Hz in a ripple tank.

2. Diagram 1.12 shows how displacement

how varies with time.

Diagram 1.12

Diagram 1.14
What is the speed of the waves?
A. 2 cms-1
B. 8 cms-1
-1
C. 12 cms
D. 18 cms-1
-1
E. 36 cms

Which of the following is true?

Amplitude/ m

A
B
C
D

0 .1
0.2
0.1
0.2

Period / s

0.50
0.50
0.25
0.50

Frequency / Hz

2
1
4
2

9. Diagram 1.15 shows the cross section of

water waves.

3. Diagram 1.13 shows the displacementtime graph of an oscillating system

Diagram 1.15
Which of the following statements is true
about the water waves?
A. T and U have the same phase
B. Wave energy is transferred from position
S to U.
C. The wave length is the distance between S
and U
D. The particles at U oscillates in a direction
parallel to the direction of the wave
propagation

Diagram 1.13
The system which produces this graph is
having
A. a perpertual oscillation
B. a forced oscillation
C. a damped oscillation
D. a resonance

1-4

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011
11. Diagram 1.16 shows the displacement distance
graph. The frequency of the wave is 5.0 Hz.

10. The graphs show the cross-sections of

water waves. Which wave has the greatest

energy?

What is the velocity of the wave?

A. 50 cms-1
C. 100 cms-1
B. 75 cms-1
D. 150 cms-1
11. Diagram 1.16 shows a silky spring being
moved left and right continuously.

11. Which graph represents a wave with

Diagram 1.16

amplitude of 4.0 cm and period of 0.05 s

(a)

Complete the sentence below by ticking

() the correct box.
The wave produced by the slinky spring
is a
Transverse wave
Longitudinal wave

b). On diagram 1.16. mark X on any of the

crest of the wave.

c) Complete the following sentence by

underlining the correct phase in the bracket.

d) What is transferred by the wave?

Energy
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. Physics Module Form 5

1.2
1.2

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

ANALYSING REFLECTION OF WAVES .

1. complete the diagram 1.21 below to show the reflected waves.

Diagram 1.21
2. Fill in the box with the correct answer.

Incidence ray

i = incidence angle
r = reflected angle

Reflected ray

3. Draw the correct pattern of reflected water waves.

wavefronts
(a)
reflector

wavefronts
(b)
reflector

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. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

(c)
Reflected light ray
Incident light ray

(c) Compare the following quantities before and after reflection.

(i)

velocity: ____remain the same__________

(ii)

frequency:_ ____remain the same__________

(iii)

wavelength: ____remain the same__________

(iv)

direction:_____ changes after undergoing reflection.

d)

In reflection , the angle of reflection is always equal to angle of reflection

1-7

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Practice 1.2
1. Which of the following characteristic of waves changes when the wave are reflected?
A.
Direction of propagation
B.
Wavelength
C.
Frequency
D.
Speed
2. What happens to the wave length and the magnitude of the velocity of water waves when it is
reflected?
Wavelength
Magnitude of velocity
A. Unchanged
Unchanged
B. Increases
Decreases
C. Decreases
Increases
D. Increases
unchanged
3. Diagram 1.22 shows a sound wave reflected from a concrete wall.

Diagram 1.22
Which statement is correct about the reflected and incident waves?
A.
The speed of the reflected waves is the same as the speed of the incident waves.
B.
The wavelength of the reflected waves is shorter than that of the incident waves.
C.
The frequency of the reflected waves is lower than that of the incident waves.
D.
The directions of the reflected waves are always at right angles to the incident waves.
4. Echo is a phenomenon caused by
A
the refraction of sound waves
B
the reflection of sound waves
C
the diffraction of sound waves
D
the polarization of sound waves
5

Diagram 1.23 shows the wavefront of a plane wave wave incident on a plane reflector.
Which comparison is correct about the reflected sound wave and the incident sound wave?

A.
B.
C.
D.

Diagram 1.23
The wavelength of the incident wave is shorter than the reflected wave.
The speed of the incident wave and the reflected wave is the same.
The frequency of the incident wave is less than the reflected wave.
The angle of incident wave is greater than the angle of reflection of the reflected wave.
1-8

. Physics Module Form 5

6.

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Diagram 1.24 show the apparatus is used to investigate the reflection of sound waves. At
what position of the cardboard tube is adjusted until a loud ticking sound of the stop watch is
heard?

Diagram 1.24
7.

Diagram 1.25 and Diagram 1.26 show the water and sound waves propagating towards a
reflector.
Incident
wavefro
nts

Reflect
edwave
front

i
r

Norm
al Ll

Direction of
reflected

Diagram 1.25

waves

wave
Card
board

Har
d
surf
ace

tube

Stop
watch

E
ar

Diagram 1.26

ii) With reference to Diagram 1.25 and Diagram 1.26 , compare the incident and reflected angle,
wavelength, frequency, speed and direction of propagation of the reflected
Incident angle in diagram 1.25 and 1.26 is equal to reflected angle, the wavelength in diagram 1.25
and diagram 1.26 remain the same, frequency of diagram 1.25 and 1.26 remain the same, speed of
diagram 1.25 and 1.26 remain the same and direction of propagation of direction of propagation of
diagram 1.25 and diagram 1.26 is changing.

1-9

. Physics Module Form 5

1.3
Describe
refraction of
waves in terms
of the angle of
incidence, angle
of refraction,
wavelength,
frequency, speed
and direction of
propagation

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Analysing refraction of waves.

1. Waves can be refracted as they move from one
medium) to another.

medium

( volume /

2. When water waves travel from one area to another area of different depth, their
speed changes ( remain / changes ) and the frequency remain (remain /
changes) .
3. The wavelength of waves in deep area is longer ( shorter / longer ) than that in
the shallow area.
4. When waves travel from a denser medium to less dense medium , they refracted
towards
(away / towards) to normal.

Diagram 1.30
5. Diagram 1.30 shows the incident ray is refracted ... towards ( away / towards ) to
normal.
Draw a diagram
to show
refraction of
wave

Complete the diagrams below.

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. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Why is the wave

bend according
to the shape of
the shoreline
when they are
approaching the
beach?

Diagram 1.31: the shape of shoreline when they are approaching the beach
uniform speed
reduce
towards

depth of the sea

refraction

parallel
refracted

shallower
wavefront

In the centre of the ocean, the water wave travel at uniform

speed as the depth of the sea water is uniform. Hence the wavefront are straight and
parallel
to each other.
When the waves reach the coast, the water is shallower
. Wave speed is reduce
and refraction
occurs. The wavefront are refracted and become closer to
each other.
Refraction causes the wavefront to be bent towards the normal and this results
the wavefront following the shape of the coastline.

Figure 1.32

Figure 1.33

Why sound can be heard over a longer distance on a cold night compared
with a hot day as illustrated in diagram 1.32 and 1.33

Sound wave travel faster in warm air ( warm air / cool air) than in cool air ( warm air / cool air). On
hot day, the hot surface of the earth causes layer of air ( layer of air/ layer of density) near the
surface to be warmer ( colder / warmer). This causes sound waves ( light waves / sound waves)
to be refracted away ( away / closer) from the earth. During night time, the sound waves travel
slower ( slower / faster ) in the cooler layer of air near ( near / upper ) the surface of the earth than
in the upper ( near / upper ) warmer air. As a result , the wave are refracted (refracted / reflected)
towards the earth. This explain why sound can be heard over a longer distance on a cold night
compared with a hot day.

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. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Practice 1.3
1. Diagram 1.34 shows water waves
propagating through a Perspex block in a
ripple tank.

3. When water waves pass from deep water into

shallow water, how do the speed,
wavelength and frequency change?

A
B
C
D
Diagram 1.4
Which wave pattern is observed when the
waves pass through the perspex bloc.

Speed
Increases
Decreases
Increases
Decreases

Wavelength
Decreases
Increases
Increases
Decreases

Frequency
No change
Decreases
No change
No change

4. An observer cannot see the coin in an empty

glass as shown in figure (a). However he can
see the coin when the glass is filled with
water as shown in figure (b)
Figure (a)

Figure (b)

The observer can see the coin in Figure (b) due to

2. Diagram 1.35 shows water waves

propagating in an area of different depths.

A
B
C
D

the total internal reflection of light

the refraction of light
the reflection of light
the diffraction of light

4. A tilted basin contains water. Water is

dripped at a constant rate into the basin as
shown in the diagram below.
Diagram 1.35
Which of the following diagrams shows the
propagation of the waves correctly?

Which pattern of the wavefronts will be

observed in the basin?

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. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

5. A ray of light passes from water to air.

Which labeled arrow shows the direction of
the ray in air?

GCKL 2011
Wavelength of the waves in region X is
longer than region Y.
(iii) Relate the depth of water to the wave length
of the waves.
The deeper the water, the longer the
wavelength.
(iv) Name the wave phenomenon involved.
Refraction.
c) Explain why the wave front of the sea will
follow the shape of the shore when it
approaches the shore.

6. Diagram 1.36 shows the side view of two

ripple tanks. When the motors are switched
on, water waves with the same frequency are
produced,

Diagram 1.36

In the ocean, wavefronts are straight and

parallel as the wave speed is uniform.
When a wave moves towards the shore, the
depth of the sea water decreases, the
velocity of the water decreases.
Refraction occur and the sea water
refracted towards the normal. This causes
the wavefront follow the shape of the
shore.
7. Diagram 1.38 (a) shows the wave formed
without a flat piece of plastic and diagram
1.38 (b) shoes the wave with a flat piece of
plastic.

Diagram 1.37 shows the waves formed on

the screens.

Diagram 1.38(a)

Diagram 1.38(b)

a) Observe the diagram and state the difference

between diagram (a) and diagram (b).
The wavelength of diagram1.38 (a) is
uniform while wavelength in diagram
1.38(b) is shorter when passes through the
plastic .

Diagram 1.37
a) What is the meaning of frequency?
Number of complete oscillations in one
second
b) Observe diagram 1.36 and diagram 1.37.

b)

Using your answer, state the relationship

between depth and wavelength
The deeper the .water, the longer the
wavelength
c) Name the wave phenomenon involve
Refraction
.

(i) compare the depths of the water in region X

and region Y.
The depth of region X is greater than in
region Y.
(ii) Compare the wavelength of the waves in
region X and region Y.

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. Physics Module Form 5

1.4
Describe
diffraction of
waves in terms
of wavelength,
frequency,
speed, direction
of propagation
and shape of
waves

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

ANALYSING DIFFRACTION OF WAVES.

1. Diffraction is the spreading out of waves when they move through a gap or
around an obstacle.
2. The narrower the gap, the more the wave spread out.
3. When the width of the gap is approximately the size of the wave length of the waves,
the diffracted waves spread out more.
4. When the gap is much wider than the wavelength of the wave, the diffraction is little.
5. After diffraction, the frequency remain unchange, the wavelength remain
unchange, and the speed remain unchange,
6. The direction of propagation of the diffracted waves changes.

Draw a diagram
to show
diffraction of
waves

Complete the diagrams below.

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. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Practice 1.4
1. Which of the following figure is true to
show the diffraction of a water wave?

3. Diagram 1.42 shows waves moving

towards a harbour.

2. Diagram 1.40 shows the bright and dark

bands of the wave patterns formed on the
screen when plane waves pass through
narrow and wide gaps.

Diagram 1.42
a) (i) What is the meaning of diffraction?
The spreading or bending of waves
around an obstacle or small opening.
(ii) Draw the wave pattern of the waves
after passing through the entrance of the
harbour.

Diagram 1.40
a) Observe Figure 1.40 compare the waves
pattern and the wavelength of the waves
after they pass through the gaps.
b) The entrance is made wider to allow
more ships to enter harbour. What is
the effect on
(i) The wave passing through the
entrance?
Less diffraction / spreading

The wave pattern after passing

through the gaps for narrow gap
formed circular waves and for wide
gap formed plane wave
The wavelength after pass through the
gap remain the same for narrow and
wide gap.
b) Relate the size of the gaps, the waves
patterns and the wavelengths to deduce a
relevant physics concept.

(ii) The harbour?

More damage to the harbour

Narrow gap produced circular wave

while wider gap produced plane wave
and the wavelength remain the same.

1-15

. Physics Module Form 5

1.5
State the
principle of
superposition.

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

ANALYSING INTERFERENCE OF WAVES

The principle of superposition state when two waves overlap, the resultant
displacement is equal to the sum of the displacements of the individual wave.

complete the diagram below.

2a

Constructive interference occur when a wave peak meets a wave peak.

Destructive interference. occur when a wave peak meets a wave trough.

1-16

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Complete the diagram 1.51 below with the information given.

R

Q
P

Diagram 1.51
a. Label P at a point of constructive interference.
b. Label Q at a point of destructive interference.
c. Draw the antinodal line and label it as R.
d. Draw the nodal line and label it as S.

5. In constructive interference, the resultant wave is at maximum amplitude.

6. In destructive interference, the resultant wave is at

minimun

amplitude.

7. An antinodes line is a line joining all the points where constructive interference takes place.
8. An nodes line is a line joining all the points where destructive interference takes place.

Node line

Node line
Node
line

Diagram 1.52

Node
line

Diagram 1.53

1-17

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

Question 9,10 and 11 based on diagram 1.52 and diagram 1.53.

9. The distance between consecutive antinodal lines ; x , in diagram 1.52 is shorter compare to
diagram 1.53
10. The distance of between two coherent source; a, in diagram 1.52 is longer compare to
diagram 1.53.
11. When the x is shorter ( longer / shorter ) , the a is longer ( longer/ shorter.
12. The light interference experiment is also known as

Youngs double slit experiment.

13. Diagram 1.54 show the interference pattern of a light wave.

Interference pattern
Diagram 1.54
Bright fringes in diagram 1.54 correspond to constructive interference
Dark fringes in diagram 1.54 correspond to destructive interference
14. In the experiment set-up for the interference of sound wave, two loud speaker are connected to
the common audio signal generator to produce
coherent source
15. Diagram 1.55 show two loud speakers placed apart from each other. A person hears alternating
loud and soft sounds as he walks along XY.

Diagram 1.55
The alternating loud and soft sounds is caused by interference of the sound waves, wher the loud
sound corresponds to the constructive interference and the soft sound corresponds to the
destructive interference

1-18

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

= ax
D
= wavelength,
a = distance between two coherent source
x = distance between two consercutive nodes ( or antinodes)
D = perpendicular distance from the source and the position where x is measured.
Worked example.
In a Youngs double-slit experiment, a light of wavelength 633 nm passes through two slits which are
0.5 mm apart. Vertical fringes are observed on a screen placed 4 m from the slits.
a) Calculate the distance between two adjacent bright fringes.
Solution;
Answer : 5.1 mm

Two loudspeakers placed 2 m apart are connected to an audio signal generator that
is adjusted to produce sound wave of frequency 550 Hz. The figure shows the detection of loud and
soft sound as a person moves along a line, 4.0 m from the loud speakers.

2.0 m

Loud sound
Soft sound

4.8 m

4.0 m
Calculate the :
(a) Wavelength ( ans : 0.6 m)
(b) Speed ( ans : 330 m s-1)
of the sound wave.

information :
a = 2 m, D = 4.0 m,
x = 4.8 / 4 = 1.2 m
f = 550 Hz

Solution :
b) v = f ,
= 550 x 0.6
= 330 m s-1

(a) = ax /D
= 2 x 1.2
= 0.6 m
1-19

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

1. Diagram 1.56 shows the interference pattern

for water waves from two coherent source,
S1 and S2.

GCKL 2011

Which diagram is correct when both waves

meet?

Diagram 1.56
Which of the following shows the
superposition of the waves at point Y?
4. Diagram1.54 shows two loudspeakers
connected to an audio generator. Students
are standing at position where loud sounds
can be heard.

2. In which diagram will destructive

interference occur when the wave meet?

A
Diagram 1.54
(a) What type of wave is the sound waves?
Longitudinal wave
(b) Why are loud sounds heard by the students at
that positions?
Constructive interference takes place

(c) The distance between the two loudspeakers is

1.5 m. At 10.0 m from the loudspeakers, the
distance between two adjacent rows of student
is 4.0 m.
Calculate the wavelength of this sound wave.
= ax /D
= 1.5 x 4 = 0.6 m
10

3. Diagram 1.57 shows two coherent wave

propagate towards each other.

Diagram 1.57
1-20

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

5. Diagram 1.43 shows another modification to

the harbour to overcome the heavy sea
traffic problem. The wave pattern produced
at the entrances is shown in diagram 1.43

GCKL 2011

White light
source

Single slit
Coloured
filter

White
screen

Double slit

Diagram 1.43

Diagram 1.43

Diagram 1.44

(i) The wave pattern formed is caused by the

superposition of waves from two coherent
sources. What is the meaning of coherent
sources?
Source that produded wave of the same
freqyency and that in the same phase

Diagram 1.45
(ii) Describe a movement of two similar ship
that are located at A and B.
Explain your answer

a) What is meant by monochromatic light?

Light with only one colour

b) Using the pattern of the fringes in figure

1.44 and 1.45, state two observation about
the distance between consecutive fringes
for the red light and blue light.

Ship at location A moves up and down

with high amplitude
Constructive interference occurs at A.
The ship at B remain calm.
Destructive interference occurs at B.

The distance between two consecutive

fringes for the same light is equal.
The distance between two consecutive
fringes for red light is longet than blue light.

6. Diagram 1.43 shows the arrangement of

apparatus for Youngs double slit. A white
light source is passed through a coloured
filter to produce a monochromatic light.
Diagram 1.44 shows the pattern of the
fringe formed on the screen when a red
filter is used

c) Compare the wavelengths of red light to

blue light
The wavelengths of red light is longer
compare to blue light.

The experiment is repeated by using a blue

filter and the fringes formed are shown in
diagram 1.45
1-21

d) Compare the wavelengths of red light and

blue light with the distances between
consecutive fringes in (b)
The greater the wavelengths the greater the
distance between consecutive fringes.

. Physics Module Form 5

1.6
Describe sound
waves

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

ANALYSING SOUND WAVES

Sound waves are produced by vibration.

Sound waves are .longitudinal waves. ( tranverse wave s/ longitudinal waves).
Sound cannot be transmitted through a vacuum..
Loudness of a sound is dependent on its amplitude
The louder the sound, the bigger the amplitude
The pitch of a sound heard depends on the frequency
The higher the pitch of the sound, the higher the frequency.

1.

Sound with frequency lower than 20 Hz is called infrasound

2. Sound with frequency higher than 20 000 Hz is called ultrasound.

3. Depth of the sea can be determine by using ultrasonic wave . The wave is sent by
from the boat to the seabed.
are detected by hydrophone next to
the transmitter. The time is measured and the depth will be calculated.

Depth of sea , d = v x
Worked example
In an expedition to determine the depth of a freshwater lake using an ultrasonic ruler, a pulse of
ultrasonic sound is generated and travels to the bottom of the lake and reflected by it. The time taken
by the pulse to travel to the bottom of the lake and return to the ruler is 0.35 s. If the speed of sound
in the freshwater is 1482 ms-1, calculate the depth of the lake.
Information : v = 1482 ms-1 , t = 0.35 s

d=vx
= 1482 x (0.35/2)
= 259.35 m

1-22

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

1. A thin guitar string is strummed hard. It will

produce a loud and high pitch sound.
The most suitable graph to represent the
above situation is
4

GCKL 2011

B. 1.2 x 10 6 m

D. 1.5 x 10 5 m

3. Diagram 1.64 shows a stretched steel wire

which produces a loud sound when the wire
is plucked.

Diagram 1.64
A loud sound means
A. a high speed
C. a high frequency
B. a large amplitude D. a large wavelength
4. Which of the following corresponds to the
highest pitch of sound?

2. Diagram 1.63 shows a submarine

transmitting ultrasonic waves directed at a
big rock on the sea bed. After 10 seconds, the
subimarine detects the reflected wave.

Diagram 1.63
Calculate the distance of the submarine from
the big rock.
[ velocity of ultrasonic wave = 1 560 ms-1 ]

A. 3.9 km
D. 31.2 km
B. 7.8 km
E. 156.6 km
C. 15.6 km
3. A radar transmits a signal towards an
aeroplane. The velocity if the signal is
3.0 x 108 ms-1. After 4.0 x 10-3 s, the radar
detects the reflected signal. What is the
distance of the aeroplane from the radar?
A. 2.4 x 10 6 m
C. 6.0 x 105 m

5. Two notes are played on a guitar. The second

is louder and has a higher pitch. The second
note is
A higher in amplitude and lower in frequency
B higher in both amplitude in frequency
C lower in amplitude and higher in frequency
D lower in both amplitude and frequency

1-23

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011
High pitch sound has high frequency and
short wavelength.
Frequency inversely proportional to
wavelength.
Sound is not diffracted to student A and
B.
Low pitch sound has low frequency and
longer wavelength.
The sound will diffracted better by the
corner and all student can hear the sound
clearly.

6. Diagram 1.65 shows an ultrasonic waves

transmitted from a boat to the seabed to
determine the depth, D, of the sea. The speed
of the ultrasonic waves in water is 1 500 ms-1.
The echo of the waves is received 2.0 s after
the transmission.

(b) The depth of a sea is 90 m. A ship transmits

an ultrasonic wave of frequency 50 kHz to
the seabed and receives an echo 0.12 s later.
Calculate:
i) The speed of the ultrasonic wave in the
water.

Diagram 1.65

d=vx
What is the value of D?
A. 375 m
D. 3 000 m
B. 750 m
E. 6 000 m
C. 1 500 m
7.

90 = v x (0.12/2)
V = 1500 ms-1
(ii) The wavelength of the ultrasonic wave in
the water.
v = f
=v/f
= 1.5x 103
5 x 104
= 3 x 10-2 m

Diagram 1.65 shows an audio frequency

generator connected to a speaker and placed
near the corner of a wall. Three students, A,B
and C are standing around the next corner.
The generator and speaker can produce sound
with the same speed but different pitch.

8. Diagram 1.66 shows an airport radar

transmitting microwave signals. Microwave
are transmitted to determine the position of
aeroplane.

Diagram 1.65

a) State the physical quantity that affects the

pitch of the sound.
Frequency
Diagram 1.66

(a) When a high pitch sound is generated, only

student C can hear the sound clearly. When
a low pitch sound is generated, all the three
students can hear the sound clearly. Explain
this situation.

a) Microwave are a type of electromagnetic

wave.

1-24

. Physics Module Form 5

chapter 1 : Waves

b) The radar transmits a signal at a velocity of

3.0 x 108 ms-1 towards the aeroplane P and
detects the reflected signal 4.0 x 10-4 s later.
Calculate the distance of P from the radar
transmitter at that time.
d =
d=
=

GCKL 2011
(b) Explain why sonar used a high frequency
sound wave.
Ultrasonic waves can transfer more energy
(c) If the time to detect the shoal of fish is 1/15
seconds, calculate the distance of the fishes
from the boat if the speed of the sound waves
in water is 1500 ms-1.

vt
2
3.0 x 108 (4.0 x 10-4)
2
60 000 m

d =

vt
2
= 1 500 x (1/15)
2
= 50 m

c) The radar detects the same signal after

reflection by another aeroplane Q. The
signal from Q arrives later than the signal
from P.

(d) Explain why does the speed of sound

in water is greater than the speed of
sound in air? [2 m]
because water is denser than air. The
molecules are closer in water and it will
travel faster.

(i) Compare the distance of P and Q from

the radar.
The distance of Q is further from radar
compare to P.

(e) Name one application of sonar.

ultra sound.

(ii) State how the difference of the distance of

P and Q from the radar is determine any
time.
Determine the shortest distance from P to
radar and from Q to radar.

9. The diagram below shows a fishing boat is

detecting a shoal of fish by using a sonar
system which has a high frequency sound
wave.

(a) State the sound wave phenomenon

for detecting the shoal of fish.
Reflection

.
1-25

. Physics Module Form 5

1.7
Describe the
electromagnetic
spectrum.
list sources of
electromagnetic
waves

chapter 1 : Waves

GCKL 2011

ANALYSING ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES

Electromagnetic spectrum consists of a group of waves with similar and arranged in

increasing frequencies and decreasing wavelengths.
Radio waves : radio and television transmitter
Microwaves : radar transmitter and microwaves oven.
Infrared rays : sun
Visible light : sun, LED, electric bulbs..
Ultraviolet rays : sun, sparks, mercury lamps.....
X-rays : x-ray tubes
Gamma rays : radioactive substance, cosmic rays.

describe the
properties of
electromagnetic
waves

Fill in the box / blank with the correct answer.

Long waves

Long waves

short waves

short waves

micro waves

micro waves

infra red Ultra violet X rays gamma rays

infrared

Ultra violet

X
rays

gamma
rays

1.

1.

Electromagnetic spectrum

3. It is arranged in

increasing

consist of a group of waves with similar natures.

frequencies and decreasing wavelengths .

4. Radio wave have the longest ( longest / shortest ) wavelength and low
frequency waves.

( low / high)

5. Gamma rays have the shortest ( longest / shortest) wavelength and high ( low / high)
frequency waves.
6. Electromagnetic waves consist of combination of oscillating ( interaction / oscillating)
electric and
magnetic
( force / magnetic) field perpendicular
7. Electromagnetic wave is a transverse

( transverse / longitudinal ) wave.

1-26

. Physics Module Form 5

8.

INFRARED RAY

ULTRAVIOLET RAYS

chapter 1 : Waves

MICROWAVES

GCKL 2011

RADIO WAVES

X-RAY S

VISIBLE LIGHT

GAMMA RAY

Longest wavelength ( 106 10-1 m)

Used for broadcasting and communication
Carries along wit it audio, video and other
encoded information.

Have shorter wavelength . ( 10-1 10-3 m)

Suitable for satellite- based communication systems,
mobile phone networks
Military uses it for spying and surveillance.

MICROWAVES

The range of wavelength is between 10-3 10-6 m.

Ordinary ovens,grills and toaster use this wave to
cook food.
Can transmit information through the air to operate
televisions and video recorders by remote control.
Also used in night vision devices.

INFRARED RAY

Easily detected by human and animal eyes.

Used in photography and can be transmitted through
optical fibre

The range of wavelength is between 10-6 10-9 m.

Can cause skin to tan and may result in skin cancer.
Can kill living cells,bacteria and germs.

The range of wavelength is between 10-8 10-12 m.

Widely used in the medical field.
Used to inspect metal castings and welded joints for hidden
faults.

Shortest wavelength in the electromagnetic spectrum.

Used in radiotheraphy to treat cancer
Used sterillisation process

1-27

RADIO WAVES

VISIBLE LIGHT

ULTRAVIOLET RAYS

X-RAY S

GAMMA RAY

Physics Module Form 5

GCKL 2010

1. Which of the following statements is true

about electromagnetic waves?
A. They are longitudinal waves.
B. They are waves that require a medium to
travel.
C. The velocity of the waves is influenced by
the wavelength
D. They consist of both magnetic field and
electric field.
2. What is the correct relationship between the
wave length of an electromagnetic radiation
and the energy it carries.
Wave length

Energy carried

A. Short

High

B. Short

Low

C. Long

High

D. Long

Low

The content in the bag are examined by using

A. X-ray
C. Ultraviolet ray
B. Gamma rays
D. Infrared rays

5. Which is the correct arrangement of

electromagnetic waves in order of increasing
frequency?
A. Infrared rays, Microwaves, Gamma rays,
Ultraviolet rays.
B. Gamma rays,, Ultraviolet rays, Infrared
rays, Microwaves.
C. Microwaves, Infrared rays, Ultraviolet
rays, Gamma rays.
D. Ultraviolet rays, Gamma rays,
Microwaves, Infrared rays.

3. Diagram 1.7 shows an electromagnet

spectrum.

6.
Diagram 1.7

Figure 1.8 (a) shows the x-rays film of a

patient. Figure 1.8 (b) shows the microwave
from the satellite used in communication.

The waves at P,Q,R and S are

A

Ultraviolet

X ray

Microwave

X ray

X ray

Ultraviolet

Infrared

Microwave

Microwave

Infrared

Ultraviolet

x-ray

infrared

Microwave

X ray

microwave

Figure 1.8 (a)

Figure 1.8

a) Observe the figures and state two similarities

between the waves.
Both are transverse waves/They transfer
energy from one place to another/

4. At an airport, a passengers bag is placed in

the baggage scanner.

They can travel through vacuum with the

speed of light.

28

Physics Module Form 5

GCKL 2010

b) Which group does these two waves belong to?

Electromagnetic waves
c) Name one other wave that has the same
properties.
Radio waves / gamma rays / ultra violet /
visible light / infra red
d) Microwaves travel at a speed of 3.0 x 108ms-1 in a
vacuum and have a frequency of 15 x 1010 Hz.
i)

Calculate the wavelength of these

microwaves.
= v/f
=3.0 x 108 ms-1
15 x 1010 Hz.
= 2.0 x 10-3 m.

29