CHAPTER

12 Waves and Acoustics

Chapter Outline
■ Longitudinal and Transverse Wave, Speed of a Wave ■ Standing Waves in Strings and Organ Pipes,
■ Displacement Relation for a Progressive Wave Fundamental Mode and Harmonics, Beats
■ Principle of Superposition of Waves, Reflection of ■ Doppler Effect in Sound
Waves

SOUND ❒ Factors affecting speed of sound in air or in gas:

g kT
Sound is a form of energy which is emitted by a vibrating 1. With temperature n ∝ ⇒ v∝ T
m
source and transmitted through a material medium produc- with rise in temperature velocity of sound in a gas
ing in us the sensation of hearing. increases.
1. Sound waves are longitudinal. The velocity of sound in a given gas will become
2. Speed of longitudinal wave, n times if temperature is changed from T to T ′ such
that T ′ = n2T.
E When change in temperature is small,
v=
r 1/ 2
v′ T′ 273 + t  t  t °C
(a) In solids, E = Y = Young’s modulus of elasticity = = = 1 +  ≈ 1+
vo T 273 + 0  273  546
Y
∴ v=  t °C 
r i.e., v ′ = vo 1 + = [332 + 0.61(t ºC)] m/s
(b) In liquids, E = B = Bulk modulus of elasticity  546 
B i.e., for small temperature variations at 0 ºC, the ve-
∴ v=
r locity of sound changes by 0.61 m/s when tempera-
(c) In gases, according to Newton, ture changes by 1ºC.
E = BT = Isothermal bulk modulus of elasticity = P 2. Pressure has no effect on speed of sound as long as
P temperature remains.
∴ v= 3. With increase in relative humidity in air, density
r
decreases. Hence, speed of sound increases.
But results did not match with this formula.
Laplace made correction in it. According to him, ❒ Echo:
E = BS = Adiabatic bulk modulus of elasticity = γ P 1. Sound persists on ear for 0.1 sec.
Velocity of sound in air = 330 m/s.
gP g RT g kT
∴ v= = = Distance covered by the sound = 330 × 0.1 = 33 m.
r M m Distance between source of sound and reflector = 16.5 m
12.2 ■ Chapter 12

2. Let the first echo be heard after t1 sec. Path difference between the l
Let the second echo be heard after t2 sec. waves at the point of observa- Path difference Δ = ( 2n − 1) 2
Then the third echo will be heard after (t1 + t2). tion Δ = nl (i.e., even multiple (i.e., odd multiple of l /2)
3. Articulate sound: The sound produced by human of l /2)
beings is called articulate sound. A person can emit Resultant amplitude at the Resultant amplitude at the
5 syllables in one second. Each syllable is produced point of observation will be point of observation will be
in 0.2 second. maximum Amax = a1 + a2 minimum
Distance travelled by sound = 0.2 × 330 = 66 m. If a1 = a2 = ⇒ Amax = 2ao Amax = a1 – a2
Reflector should be at a distance = 33 m from person. If a1 = a2 = ⇒ Amax = 0
❒ Sound Level (L): Resultant intensity at the point Resultant intensity at the point
I of observation will be maximum of observation will be minimum
1. L = 10 log10 (in dB) I max = I1 + I 2 + 2 I1 I 2 I min = I1 + I 2 − 2 I1 I 2
Io
( ) ( )
2 2
Here Io = intensity of minimum audible sound = 10–12 = I1 + I 2 = I1 − I 2
watt/m2
If I1 = I 2 = I o ⇒ I max = 4 I o If I1 = I 2 = I o ⇒ I min = 0
2. While comparing loudness of two sounds we may
write,
I Beats: When two notes (or two sound waves) of nearly
L2 – L1 = 10 log 10 2 equal frequency travelling in same direction superpose
I1 each other at a given point, then the intensity of the result-
2 ing sound rises and falls periodically. This periodic rise and
1 I r
a. In case of point source, I ∝ 2 or, 2 =  1  fall in the intensity of sound at a given point is called as
r I 2  r2  beats.
1 I r 1. νb = ν1 – ν2 (ν1 > ν2)
b. In case of line source, I ∝ or, 2 =  1  2. Intensity of sound at a given point is not constant but
r I 2  r2 
varies periodically with time, i.e., interference is not
3. However as human ear responds to sound intensities sustained. As the persistance of ear is about (1/10)sec.,
over a wide range, i.e., from 10–12 W/m2 to 1 W/m2, so beats will be detected by the ear only when frequency
instead of specifying intensity of sound in W/m2, we (ν1 – ν2) < 10 Hz.
use a logarithmic scale of intensity called sound level 3. If beat frequency is more than 10, beats produced will
defined as, L = 10 log [I/Io], where Io is the threshold be more than 10 per sec but heard zero, as there will be
of human ear, i.e., 10–12 W/m2. continuous sound of intensity Iaverage = [(Imax. + Imin.)/2] =
4. The sound level defined in this way is expressed in I1 + I2 instead of waxing and waning of sound.
decibel (dB). 4. Phenomenon of beats is used by musicians in tuning
5. A sound of intensity Io has an L = 10 log (Io/Io) = their instruments. They sound their instruments along
0 dB while sound at the upper range of human hear- with a standard source and tune them till beats are no
ing called threshold of pain has an intensity of 1 W/ more heard. In this situation, frequency of the instru-
m2 or a L = 10 log (1/10–12) = 120 dB. ment becomes equal to that of standard source.
5. Beats are observed when intensity at a point varies with
time and beat frequency is equal to the frequency of
INTERFERENCE oscillations of intensity at that point.
6. Intensity at a point not only depends upon the frequency
❒ Constructive and destructive interference: of medium particles but it depends upon the amplitude
Constructive Interference Destructive Interference of oscillation of medium particles also. Therefore, beats
When the waves meet a point When the waves meet a point are observed when amplitude of oscillation of medium
with same phase, constructive with opposite phase, destruc- particles varies with time. If the beat frequency at a point
interference is obtained at that tive interference is obtained is equal to n, it means, at that point amplitude of oscilla-
point (i.e., maximum sound). at that point (i.e., minimum tion of medium particles varies with frequency n.
sound) 7. If two sound waves of wavelengths lA and lB produce
Phase difference between the Phase difference lb beats, then the velocity of sound is given by:
waves at the point of observation ϕ = 180º or (2n–1) π; vb l A lB
v v
ϕ = 0º or 2nπ, n = 1, 2, ...... n = 1, 2, ......  = vb or ν=
l A lB lB  l A
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.3

8. If two open resonating air columns (closed) produce νb to (A1 – A2). Points where amplitude is maximum
beats per second, then velocity of sound is given by: (or A1 + A2) are called antinodes (or points of con-
structive interference) and points where amplitude is
v v  2v l l 
 = vb or ν =  b 1 2  (for open pipe) minimum (or A1 – A2) are called nodes (or points of
2l1 2l2  l2  l1  destructive interference).
 4v l l  5. If A1 = A2 = A, Then amplitude at antinode is 2A and
and ν =  b 1 2  (for closed pipe) at node is zero. In this case, points at node do not
 l2  l1 
oscillate.
n ±n m ±no 
Doppler effect in sound: n ′ = n  where, n 6. Points at antinodes have maximum energy of oscil-
 n ± n m ± n s 
❒
lation and points at nodes have minimum energy of
is the speed of sound, nm is the speed of medium, vo is the oscillation (zero when A1 = A2).
speed of observer and ns is speed of source. 7. Points lying between two successive nodes are in
1. For supersonic speeds of source or observer, vs and vo same phase. They are out of phase with the points
should be less than n i.e., vs < n and no < n. lying between two neighboring successive nodes.
2. There should be a relative motion between source and 8. Since, sound sources are point isotropic, therefore,
observer for Doppler’s effect to apply. intensity due to these sources varies with distance
3. This effect fails when source and observer move at from the sources. Since, intensity varies with dis-
right angles to each other. tance from the sources, therefore, the amplitude of
4. Transverse Doppler’s effect holds good for optical oscillation of medium particles also varies with dis-
waves also. tance. If a point on the line passing through positions
❒ Frequency of unknown tuning fork for various cases: of these sources is considered, then at all the points
Suppose a tuning fork of known frequency (nA) is (except mid-points), the amplitudes due to these two
sounded together with another tuning fork of unknown waves will be unequal. Hence, stationary waves can-
frequency (nB) and x beats heard per second. not be produced at these points.
9. Equation of stationary wave is of type,
By Loading y = 2A sin kx cos ω t or y = A cos kx sin ω t etc.
If B is loaded with wax so If A is loaded with wax its This equation can also be written as,
its frequency decreases frequency decreases y = Ax sin ω t or y = Ax cos ω t
If x increases nB = nA – x If x increases nB = nA + x If x = 0 is an antinode then, Ax = Aosinkx
If x decrease nB = nA + x If x decrease nB = nA – x If x = 0 is an antinode then, Ax = Aocoskx, Here Ao is
If remains same nB = nA + x If x remains same nB = nA – x maximum amplitude at antinode.
If x becomes zero nB = nA + x If x becomes zero nB = nA – x 10. Energy of oscillation in a given volume can be
By Filling obtained either by adding energies due to two
individual waves travelling in opposite directions
If B is filed, its frequency If A is filed, its frequency or by integration. Because in standing wave ampli-
increases increases
tude and therefore energy of oscillation varies point
If x increases nB = nA + x If x increases nB = nA – x to point.
If x decrease nB = nA – x If x decrease nB = nA + x ❒ Oscillations of stretched wire or organ pipes:
If remains same nB = nA – x If remains same nB = nA + x
If x becomes zero nB = nA – x If x becomes zero nB = nA + x Stretched wire:
1. Velocity of a transverse wave in stretched string = v
❒ Stationary waves: T
1. Stationary waves are formed by the superposition of v = where T denotes tension and m denotes
m
two identical waves travelling in opposite directions.
mass per unit length of string
2. Formation of stationary waves is really the interfer-
ence of two waves in which coherent (same frequency) mass of string volume × density
m= =
sources are required. length of string l
3. By the word identical waves we mean that they must (p R 2 l ) r
have same value of v, ω, and k. Amplitudes may be m= = p R 2r.
l
different, but same amplitudes are preferred.
4. In stationary waves all particles oscillate with same T 1 T
v= =
value of ω but amplitudes varying from (A1 + A2) pR 2 r R pr
12.4 ■ Chapter 12

2. It means that the frequency produced on the stretched Fundamental tone or first harmonic (n = 1)
1 T
wire is n = n ×
2l m
3. Law of loops (p) for a given length and given First overtone or second harmonic (n = 2)
frequency:
1 1 1 1
ν∝ ,ν∝ T ,ν∝ ,ν∝ ,ν∝
l m R r Second overtone or third harmonic (n = 3)
2
p T
4. p T = constant ⇒ = 2 . This is Melde’s law.
1
2
p 2 T1
5. In longitudinal mode, vibrations of the prongs of tun- Closed organ pipe:
ing fork are along the length of the string. ν 
Frequency of vibration of string = ν = n   n = 1, 3, 5, .......
 4l 
frequency of tuning fork Fundamental tone or first harmonic (n = 1)
2
p T
nL =
l m
First overtone or third harmonic (n = 3)
6. In transverse mode, vibrations of tuning fork are at
90º (right angles) to the length of string.
Frequency of vibration of string = frequency of tuning
Second overtone or fifth harmonic (n = 5)
fork
p T nL
nT = =
2l m 2
9. Stationary transverse waves are formed in stretched
7. In both the modes, Melde’s law (p2T = constant) is wire and longitudinal stationary waves are formed in
obeyed. organ pipes.
 v 10. Open end of pipe is displacement antinode, but
8. n = n   Here, n = 1, 2, 3,.............
 2l  pressure and density nodes. Closed end of pipe
Even and odd both harmonics are obtained. is displacement node, but pressure and density
antinodes.
T T
Here, n = or 11. Factors on which frequency of pipe depends
m rS (i) length of air column, n ∝ 1/l
Fundamental tone or first harmonic (n = 1) (ii) radius of air column, n ∝ 1/r
(iii) velocity of sound in air column, n ∝ v
(iv) temperature of air column, n ∝ T
First overtone or second harmonic (n = 2) (v) pressure of air inside air column, n ∝ P
(vi) density of air, n ∝ 1/ r
v TP v TP
Second overtone or third harmonic (n = 3) In general, n ∝ ∝
lr r lr r

12. Laplace correction e = 0.6 r (in closed organ pipe)

Open organ pipe: and 2e = 1.2 r (in open organ pipe)
 v 
 v Hence, n = n   (in open organ pipe) and
n = n  n = 1, 2, 3,.............
 2l   2(l + 1.2r ) 
Even and odd both harmonics are obtained.  v 
v = n  (in closed organ pipe).
Here, n = speed of sound in air.  4(l + 0.6 r ) 
v will be either given in the question, otherwise,
13. If an open organ pipe and a closed organ pipe are
g RT of same lengths then fundamental frequency of open
Calculate from n = .
M
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.5

organ pipe is two times the fundamental frequency of (i) Comparison of velocities of sound in different gases.
closed organ pipe. (ii) Comparison of velocities of sound in different solids.
❒ Resonance Tube: (iii) Comparison of velocities of sound in a solid and
It is used to determine velocity of sound in air by the in a gas.
help of a tuning fork of known frequency. (iv) Comparison of density of two gases.
(v) Determination of g a gas.
❒ Kundt’s Tube: (vi) Determination of velocity of sound in a liquid.
Kundt’s tube may be used for

CHAPTER-END EXERCISES

BASED ON NCERT EXAMPLES

1. A stone dropped from the top of a tower of height (b) The transmitted wave is in water. Hence speed
300 m high splashes into the water of a pond near of sound in air, n = 1486 m/s and frequency of
the base of the tower. When is the splash heard at the sound emitted by bat, u = 1000 kHz = 106 Hz
top given that the speed of sound in air is 340 m s–1? v 1486
(g = 9.8 m/s2). ∴ wavelength, l = = = 1486 × 10–6 m
υ 106
Solution: The time lapsed after dropping of the stone = 1.49 × 10–3 m
when the sound of splash is heard, is to be calculated 3. The transverse displacement of a string (clamped at
in two steps. First, the time taken by the stone to its both ends) is given by
reach the base and secondly the time taken by the
sound wave to reach back the top  2p 
y(x, t) = 0.06 sin  x cos (120 π t)
Here h = 300 m; g = 9.8 m/s2; initial velocity, u = o  3 
1 where x and y are in m and t in s. The length of the
From relation h = ut1 + gt12 , we have
2 string is 1.5 m and its mass is 3.0 × 10–2 kg.
1 300 Answer the following:
= 0 × t1 + × 9.8 × t12 or t1 = = 7.82 s.
2 4.9 (a) Does the function represent a travelling wave or a
To cover the distance of 300 m at 340 m/s, the sound stationary wave?
300 (b) Interpret the wave as superposition of two waves
takes the time t2 = = 0.88 s travelling in opposite directions. What are wave-
340
Total time lapsed is t1 + t2 = 7.82 + 0.88 = 8.70 s length, frequency, and speed of each wave?
2. A bat emits ultrasonic sound of frequency 100 kHz (c) Determine the tension in the string.
in air. If the sound meets a water surface, what is the Solution: (a) The displacement is harmonic function
wavelength of (a) the reflected sound, (b) the trans- of x and t separately and not in combination form as
mitted sound? Speed of sound in air is 340 m/s and (vt ± x), hence it is not a travelling wave but it repre-
in water 1486 m/s. sents stationary wave.
Solution: Whenever a wave meets a surface separat- (b) A stationary wave can be considered as the
ing two medium, part of it is reflected and part of it is superposition of two travelling waves if
transmitted.  2p 
y′ = – A sin  ( vt − x ) is incident wave and
(a) The reflected wave is in air, Hence,  l 
speed of sound in air, n = 340 m/s and frequency
of sound emitted by bat, u = 1000 kHz = 106 Hz  2p 
y′′ = – A sin  ( vt + x ) is reflected wave, then
 l 
n 340
∴ wavelength, l = = = 340 × 10–6 m  2p   2p vt
u 106 y = y′ – y′′ = 2Asin  x  cos   (1)
= 3.4 × 10–4 m.  3   l 
12.6 ■ Chapter 12

Comparing the given equation l 7 7

= or l= m
 2p  2 8 4
y(x, t) = 0.06 sin  x cos (120 πt)
 3  (a) Now n = nl.
with the Eq. (1), we get 7
∴ n = 45 × = 78.75 = 79 m/s.
2A = 0.06 or amplitude, A = 0.03 m 4
2p x 2p x Speed of a transverse wave is 79 m s–1.
= or wavelength, l = 3.0 m
3 l T
(b) Also n = or T = v2µ
2p vt m
= 120 π t or n = 60l = 60 × 3 = 180 m/s
l ∴ T = (79)2 × 4.0 × 10–2 = 248 N
v 180
and frequency, n = = = 60 Hz. 6. A metre-long tube open at one end, with a movable
l 3
piston at the other end, shows resonance with a fixed
(c) For stretched string T = µn 2
frequency source (a tuning fork of frequency 340 Hz)
m 3.0 × 10 −2 when the tube length is 25.5 cm or 79.3 cm. Estimate
Here n = 180 m/s and µ = =
I 1.5 the speed of sound in air at the temperature of the
= 2 × 10–2 kg m–1 experiment. The edge effects may be neglected.
∴ Tension, T = µn 2 = 2 × 10–2 × (180)2 = 648 N Solution: For a pipe with one end closed, the resonant
4. Given below are some functions of x and t to repre- frequency is
sent the displacement (transverse or longitudinal) of 2n − 1
an elastic wave. State which of these represent (i) a nn = ×v
4l
travelling wave, (ii) stationary wave or (iii) none at all:
(a) y = 2 cos (3x) sin (10t) Let the mode of oscillation for l1 = 25.5 cm be n1: and
(b) y = 2 x − vt mode for oscillation for l = 79.3 cm be n2. The
(c) y = 2 sin (5x – 0.5t) + 4 cos (5x – 0.5t) l1 2n1 − 1 25.5 1
(d) y = cos x sin t + cos 2x sin 2t = = =
l2 2n2 − 1 79.3 3
Solution: (a) This displacement function has two
harmonic functions each for x and t which is charac- Thus, n1 = 1 and n2 = 3
teristic of a stationary wave. The tube resonant at 25.5 cm in the fundamental
(b) This function cannot expressed any type of wave. mode and at 79.3 cm in third harmonic.
(c) The argument of sine and cosine functions are
So, speed of the sound, n = υ × 4 × l = 340 × 4 × 25.5
same, therefore, it can be mathematically solved
= 346.8 m s–1 = 347 ms–1.
as
y = a sin q + b cos q = a 2 + b 2 sin (q + f) 7. A steel rod 100 cm long is clamped at its middle. The
b fundamental frequency of longitudinal vibrations of
where f = tan–1 the rod are given to be 2.53 kHz. What is the speed
a
Hence, it represents a travelling harmonic motion. of sound in steel?
(d) The function given has two terms each represent- Solution: For the rod clamped in the middle, the
ing a stationary wave of different characteristics. mid-point is a node and the two free ends are anti-
Thus, it is superposition of two stationary waves. nodes. Thus, when set into vibrations its length is the
5. A wire stretched between two rigid supports vibrates l
distance between consecutive antinodes. i.e., .
in its fundamental mode with a frequency of 45 Hz. 2
l
The mass of the wire is 3.5 × 10–2 kg and its linear Thus, = 100 cm or l = 200 cm = 2 m,
2
density is 4.0 × 10–2 kg m–1. What is (a) the speed of n = 2.53 kHz = 2.53 ×103 Hz
a transverse wave on the string, and (b) the tension in ∴ v = nl = 2.53 × 103 × 2 = 5.06 × 103 m s–1
the string? = 5.06 km/s.
Solution: 8. A pipe 20 cm long is closed at one end. Which har-
mass of wire 3.5 × 10 −2 7 monic mode of the pipe is resonantly excited by a
Length of wire = = = 430 Hz source? Will the same source be in resonance
linear density 4.0 × 10 −2 8
with the pipe if both ends are open? (speed of sound
l in air is 340 m s–1).
In the fundamental mode, this length is
2
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.7

v 340 11. A train, standing in a station-yard, blows a whistle of

Solution: For a closed end pipe n = = frequency 400 Hz in still air. The wind starts blow-
l 2 × 0.02
ing in the direction from the yard to the station
= 850 Hz.
with a speed of 10 m s–1. What are the frequency,
For fundamental n = 1, n = 340 m/s and l = 0.20 m
wavelength and speed of sound for an observer
340 standing of the station’s platform? Is the situation
n1 = = 425 Hz
4 × 0.02 exactly identical to the case when the air is still
The next frequency is for n = 2, i.e., n2 = 2 × 425 = 850 Hz. and the observer runs towards the yard at a speed
Thus, it is only the fundamental mode in which pipe of 10 m s–1? The speed of sound in still air can be
closed at one end can be resonantly excited. taken as 340 m s–1.
l Solution: In this case neither source nor the observer
If the pipe is open at both ends then = l.
2 are in motion with respect to each other. Therefore,
v 340 there will be no change in frequency. The frequency
and n= = = 850 Hz
l 2 × 0.02 of the whistle to the observer = 400 Hz.
The higher harmonic will have frequency multiple of The wind is blowing from the source to the
this fundamental mode hence an open pipe will not observer. The velocity of sound for the observer =
resonant with the 430 Hz source in any mode. v + wind velocity
9. Two sitar strings A and B playing the note ‘Ga’ are = 340 + 10 = 350 m/s.
slightly out of tune and produce beats of frequency 6 Hz.
The tension in the string A is slightly reduced and the speed of sound
The wavelength of sound, l =
beat frequency is found to reduce to 3 Hz. If the original frequency
frequency of A is 324 Hz, what is the frequency of B? 350
Solution: Original frequency of A = 324 Hz. = = 0.875 m.
400
B gives beat of frequency = 6 Hz.
Thus, the frequency of B = 324 ± 6 Hz. This situation is not equivalent to the case when
= 330 Hz or 318 Hz either source or observer are in motion with respect
When the tension in the string A is reduced, the to each other.
 12. A SONAR system fixed in a submarine operates
T 
velocity of waves on it is also n reduced n = , at a frequency of 40.0 kHz. An enemy submarine
this reduces frequency of A.  µ  moves towards the SONAR with a speed of 360 km
Since the number of beats decreases on decrease h–1. What is the frequency of sound reflected by the
in frequency of A while of B is unchanged, the fre- submarine? Take the speed of sound in water to be
quency of B must be the lower of the two possible 1450 m s–1.
values. Thus, frequency of B will be 318 Hz. Solution: Frequency of the source, υ = 40.0 kHz
10. A train standing at the outer signal of a railway sta- Speed of sound in water, n = 1450 m/s
tion blows a whistle of frequency 400 Hz in still air. Speed of sound observer (enemy submarine),
(i) what is the frequency of the whistle for a plat- vo = 360 km/h = 100 m/s.
form observer when the train (a) approaches the Sound is observed by the enemy submarine. Observer
platform with a speed of 10 m s–1, (b) recedes is moving toward the source. Frequency of SONAR
from the platform with a speed of 10 m s–1? as received by energy submarine is given by
(ii) What is the speed of sound in each case? The speed v + uo 1450 + 100
of sound in still air can be taken as 340 m s–1. n1 = ν= × 40 = 45.93 kHz
v 1450
Solution: In this case, the source is moving and the
observer is stationary. The enemy submarine reflects these waves and hence,
(i) (a) us = 10 ms–1; n = 400 Hz and n =340 ms–1. now acts as source of sound frequency 42.76 kHz. This
sound is moving towards SONAR with a speed of 10
υ 340 m/s. Hence apparent frequency of sound wave, reflected
∴n′= n = 400
n × = 412 Hz
υ − us (340 − 10) by the enemy submarine towards the SONAR, i.e.,
(b) us = 10 ms–1; n = 400 Hz and n =340 ms–1. v 1450
n2 = n1 = × 42.76 = 45.93 kHz
υ 340 v − vs 1450 − 100
∴n′= n = 400 × = 389 Hz
( υ + us ) (340 + 10) The frequency of sound reflected by the submarine is
(ii) The speed of sound in each case is 340 m s–1. 45.9 kHz.
12.8 ■ Chapter 12

PRACTICE EXERCISES (MCQS)

1. Sound waves in air are always longitudinal, because 9. A sound wave travelling with a velocity n in a medium
(a) density of air is very small A reaches a point on the interface of medium A and
(b) air is a mixture of several gases B. If the velocity in the medium B be 2v, the angle
(c) air does not have a modulus of rigidity of incidence for total internal reflection of the wave
(d) of the inherent characteristics of sound waves will be
in air (a) > 15º (b) > 30º
2. Which of the following statements is incorrect? (c) > 45º (d) > 90º
(a) Sound travels in straight lines 10. A sound wave of wavelength 90 cm in glass is
(b) Sound travels as waves refracted into air. If the velocity of sound in glass is
(c) Sounds is a form of energy 5400 m/sec, the wavelength of the wave in air is
(d) Sound travels faster in vacuum than in air (a) 55 cm (b) 5.5 cm
3. With the propagation of a longitudinal wave through 11. A blast gives a sound of intensity 0.8 W/m2 and fre-
a material medium, the quantities transmitted in the quency 1 kHz. If the density of air is 1.3 kg/m3 and
direction of propagation are speed of sound in air is 330 m/s, the amplitude of the
(a) energy, momentum and mass sound wave is approximately
(b) energy (a) 5 × 10–6 m (b) 9.7 × 10–6 m
(c) energy and mass (c) 15 × 10 m–6
(d) 20 × 10–6 m
(d) energy and linear momentum 12. A sound wave of frequency 500 Hz covers a distance
4. The velocity of sound is generally greater in solids of 1000 m in 5 second between points X and Y. The
than in gases because number of waves between X and Y are
(a) the density of solids is high, but the elasticity is (a) 500 (b) 1000
low (c) 2500 (d) 5000
(b) the density of solids is high, but the elasticity of 13. A student sees a jet plane flying from east to west.
solids is very high When the jet is seen just above his head, the sound
(c) both the density and elasticity of solids are low of jet appears to reach him making angle 60º with
(d) the density of solids is low but the elasticity is the horizontal from east. If the velocity of sound is v.
high then that of the jet plane is
5. Light can travel in vacuum but not sound, because (a) 2v (b) ( 3 / 2) v
(a) speed of sound is very much slower than light (c) ( 2 / 3 ) v (d) v/2
(b) light waves are electromagnetic in nature 14. A person hears the sound of a jet aeroplane after it
(c) sound waves are electromagnetic in nature has passed over his head. The angle of the jet plane
(d) light waves are not electromagnetic in nature with the horizontal when the sound appears to be
6. Apparatus used to find out velocity of sound in gas is coming vertically downwards is 60º. If the veloc-
(a) Melde’s apparatus (b) Kundt’s tube ity of sound is v, then the velocity of the jet plane
(c) Quincke’s tube (d) none of these should be
7. If the amplitude of sound is doubled and the fre- (a) 2v (b) v / 3
quency reduced to one-fourth, the intensity of sound (c) 3v (d) v
at the same point will be 15. If the pressure amplitude of a sound wave is tripled,
(a) increased by a factor of 2 then by what factor the intensity of the sound wave is
(b) decreased by a factor of 2 increased?
(c) decreased by a factor of 4 (a) 3 (b) 6
(d) unchanged (c) 9 (d) 3
8. Velocity of sound waves in air is 330 m/s. For a par- 16. A stone is dropped into a lake from a tower of 500 m
ticular sound in air, a path difference of 40 cm is height. The sound of the splash will be heard by the
equivalent to a phase difference of 1.6p. The fre- man after
quency of the wave is (a) 21 sec (b) 10 sec
(a) 165 Hz (b) 150 Hz (c) 11.5 sec (d) 14 sec
(c) 660 Hz (d) 330 Hz
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.9

17. If the temperature is raised by 1 K from 300 K, then wall at which all particles will have maximum ampli-
the percentage change in the speed of sound in the tude of vibration will be: (speed of sound = 300 m/s)
gaseous mixture is: (R = 8.31 J/mole-K) 7 3
(a) 0.167% (b) 2% (a) m (b) m
8 8
(c) 1% (d) 0.334%
1 1
18. A point source emits sound equally in all directions (c) m (d) m
in a non-absorbing medium. Two points P and Q 8 4
25. The principle of superposition in wave motion tells
are at a distance of 9 m and 25 m respectively from
that in a motion in which two or more waves are
the source. The ratio of the amplitude of waves at
simultaneously producing their displacement in a
P and Q is
particle along the same line, then the resultant
3 5 (a) amplitude is the sum of the individual ampli-
(a) (b)
5 3 tudes
9 25 (b) velocity is the sum of the individual velocities
(c) (d)
25 9 (c) displacement is the sum of the individual dis-
19. The intensity of a plane progressive wave of fre- placements
quency 1000 Hz is 10–10 watt per metre2. Given that (d) phase is the sum of the individual phases
the speed of sound is 330 m/s and density of air is 26. When two coherent waves interfere, there is:
1.293 kg/m3, then the maximum change in pressure (a) loss in energy
(in N/m2) is (b) gain in energy
(a) 3 × 10–4 (b) 3 × 10–5 (c) redistribution of energy which changes with
(c) 3 × 10 –3
(d) 3 × 10–2 time
20. A window whose area is 2 m2 opens on a street where (d) redistribution of energy which does not change
street noises result in an intensity level at the window with time
of 60 dB. How much acoustic power enters the win- 27. The complete destructive interference of two sound
dow via sound waves and if an acoustic absorber is waves takes place when the two waves are travelling
fitted at the window, how much energy from street in the same direction
noise will it collect in five hours? (a) with the same frequency and amplitude and are
(a) 3 µW, 2 × 10–3 J (b) 2 µW, 36 × 10–3 J in phase
(c) 36 µW, 2 × 10 J –3
(d) 2 µW, 3.6 × 10–3 J (b) with the same frequency and amplitude and are
21. The power of sound from the speaker of a ratio is in opposite phase
20 mW. By turning the knob of volume control the (c) with the same frequency and amplitude
power of sound increased to 400 MW. What is the (d) with the same frequency and opposite phase
power increase as compared to the original power? 28. To demonstrate the phenomenon of beats, we need
(a) 1.3 dB (b) 3.1 dB (a) two sources which emit radiation of nearly the
(c) 13 dB (d) 30.1 dB same frequency
22. When pressure increased by 1 atmosphere and tem- (b) two sources which emit radiation of exactly the
perature increases by 1ºC, the velocity of sound same frequency
(a) decreases by 0.61 m s–1 (c) two sources which emit radiation of exactly the
(b) increases by 61 m s–1 same frequency and have a definite phase rela-
(c) decreases by 61 m s–1 tionship
(d) increases by 0.61 m s–1 (d) two sources which emit radiation of exactly the
23. Distance between successive compressions and rar- same wavelength
efactions is 1 m and velocity of sound is 360 m s–1. 29. To demonstrate the phenomenon of interference, we
Find frequency need
(a) 180 Hz (b) 45 Hz (a) two sources which emit radiation of nearly the
(c) 120 Hz (d) 90 Hz same frequency
24. Sound waves of f = 600 Hz fall normally on a per- (b) two sources which emit radiation of exactly the
fectly reflecting wall. The shortest distance from the same frequency
12.10 ■ Chapter 12

(c) two sources which emit radiation of exactly the When it is reflected at a rarer medium, its amplitude
same frequency and have a definite phase rela- becomes 75% of its previous value. The equation of
tionship the reflected wave is
(d) two sources which emit radiation of exactly the  x
same wavelength (a) y = 0.02 sin 8p t − 
 20 
30. Out of the given four waves (1), (2), (3) and (4),
y = 20 sin (100πt) (1)  x
(b) y = 0.02 sin 8p t + 
y = 20 sin (101πt) (2)  20 
y = 20 cos (100πt) (3)  x
y = 20.1 sin (100πt) (4) (c) y = + 0.015 sin 8p t + 
 20 
emitted by four different sources S1, S2, S3 and S4 re-
spectively, interference phenomenon would be ob-  x
(d) y = – 0.015 sin 8p t − 
served in space under appropriate conditions when  20 
(a) source S1 emits wave (1) and S4 emits wave (4) 36. A wave is propagating along x-axis and another wave
(b) source S2 emits wave (2) and S4 emits wave (4) is propagating along y-axis. If they superimpose each
(c) source S1 emits wave (1) and S3 emits wave (3) other, the resultant wave will be
(d) interference phenomenon cannot be observed by (a) circular (b) parabolic
the combination of any of the given waves (c) straight line (d) elliptical
31. When two progressive waves of intensity I1 and I2 but 37. Four independent waves are represented by the fol-
slightly different frequencies superpose, the resultant lowing equations:
intensity fluctuates between X1 = a1 sin w t …(1); X2 = a1 sin 2w t (2)
X3 = a1 sin w 1t …(3) and X4 = a1 sin (w t + d ) (4)
(a) ( I1 + I 2 ) 2 and ( I1 − I 2 ) 2
Interference is possible between waves represented
by equations
(b) ( I1 + I 2 ) and ( I1 − I 2 )
(a) 3 and 4 (b) 1 and 2
(c) 2 and 3 (d) 1 and 4
(c) (I1 + I2) and I1 − I 2 38. Two periodic waves of intensities I1 and I2 pass
through a region at the same time in the same direc-
I1 I
(d) and 2 tion. The sum of the maximum and minimum inten-
I2 I1 sities is
32. Two sinusoidal plane waves of the same frequency (a) ( I1 + I 2 ) 2 (b) ( I1 − I 2 ) 2
having intensities Io and 4Io are travelling in the same (c) I1 + I2 (d) 2(I1 + I2)
direction. The resultant intensity at a point at which 39. Two waves are passing through a region in the same
waves meet with a phase difference of zero radian is direction at the same time. If the equations of these
(a) Io (b) 5Io waves are
(c) 9Io (d) 3Io 2p
33. In the Q. 32, the resultant intensity at a point at which y1 = a sin (vt – x)
p l
the waves meet with a phase difference of radian is
2 2p
(a) Io (b) 5Io and y2 = b sin [(vt – x) + xo],
(c) 9Io (d) 3Io l
34. In the Q. 32, the resultant intensity at a point at which then the amplitude of the resulting wave for xo = (l/2)
the waves meet with a phase difference of π radian is is
(a) Io (b) 5Io (a) a − b (b) a + b
(c) 9Io (d) 3Io
35. The equation of a plane progressive wave is (c) a 2 + b 2 (d) a 2 + b 2 + 2ab cos x
 x 40. Two coherent sources must have the same
y = 0.02 sin 8π t −  (a) amplitude (b) phase difference only
 20  (c) frequency only (d) both (b) and (c)
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.11

41. Two sources of intensity I and 4I are used in an inter- string if a slight increase in tension produces fewer
ference experiment. The intensity at points where the beats per second than before?
waves from the two sources superpose with a phase (a) 460 Hz (b) 470 Hz
difference (c) 480 Hz (d) 4490 Hz
(a) 5I, 3I, 0 (b) 5I, 3I, 2I 48. Three sound waves of equal amplitude have frequen-
(c) 9I, 5I, I (d) 9I, 5I, 0 cies (n +1), n, (n +1). They superpose to give beats.
42. When beats are produced by two progressive waves The number of beats produced per second will be
of nearly the same frequency, which one of the fol- (a) 4 (b) 3
lowing is correct? (c) 2 (d) 1
(a) The particles vibrate simple harmonically, with 49. Two vibrating tuning forks producing progressive
the frequency equal to the difference in the com- waves given by: y1 = 4 sin (500πt) and y2 = 2 sin
ponent frequencies (506πt) are held near the ear of a person. The person
(b) The amplitude of vibrations at any point changes will hear
simple harmonically with a frequency equal to (a) 3 beats per second with intensity ratio between
difference in the frequencies of the two waves maxima and minima equal to 9
(c) The frequency of the beats depends on the posi- (b) 3 beats per second with intensity ratio between
tion, where the observer is maxima and minima equal to 2
(d) The frequency of the beat changes as the time (c) 6 beats per second with intensity ratio between
progresses maxima and minima equal to 2
(e) The particle’s vibration frequency and amplitude (d) 6 beats per second with intensity ratio between
frequency are equal maxima and minima equal to 9
43. When beats are produced by two progressive waves 50. Consider ten identical sources of sound all giving the
of same amplitude and of nearly the same frequen- same frequency but having phase angles which are
cies, then the maximum loudness heard, correspond- random. If the average intensity of each source is Io,
ing to each of the constituent waves is the average of resultant intensity I due to all these ten
(a) two times (b) four times sources will be
(c) same (d) 8 times (a) I = 100Io (b) I = 10Io
44. Beats are produced by two progressive waves. (c) I = Io (d) I = 10I o
Maximum loudness at the waxing is x times the loud- 51. A number of tuning forks are arranged in the order
ness of each wave . The value of x is of increasing frequency and any two successive tun-
(a) 1 (b) 2 ing forks produce 4 beats per second, when sounded
(c) 2 (d) 4 together. If the last tuning fork has a frequency octave
45. Tuning fork A of frequency 258 cycles/sec gives 8 beats higher than that of the first tuning fork and the fre-
with a tuning fork B. When prongs of B are cut and quency of the first tuning fork is 256 Hz, then the
again A and B are sounded the number of beats heard number of tuning forks is
remains same. The frequency of B (in cycles/sec) is (a) 63 (b) 64
(a) 250 (b) 264 (c) 65 (d) 66
(c) 242 (d) 258 52. Two waves of wavelength 2 m and 2.02 m respec-
46. Two tuning forks are in vibration and no beats are tively, moving with the same velocity, superpose
heard. One of the prongs of one tuning fork is loaded to produce 2 beats per second. The velocity of the
and then it is sounded with another tuning fork and waves is
four beats are heard. Now, the prongs of loaded tun- (a) 400.0 m/s (b) 404.0 m/s
ing fork are cut slightly. Now, on sounding together (c) 402.0 m/s (d) 406.0 m/s
they produce 4 beats. Initially, the ratio of the fre- 53. If a note x of unknown frequency produces 8 beats/
quencies of the two tuning forks was sec, with a source of 250 Hz and 12 beats/sec with a
(a) 1 : 1 (b) 4 : 1 source of 270 Hz, the frequency of unknown source
(c) 1 : 4 (d) 1 : 2 will be
47. A tuning fork of frequency 480 Hz produces 10 beats (a) 258 Hz (b) 242 Hz
per second when sounded with a vibrating sonom- (c) 262 Hz (d) 282 Hz
eter string. What must have been the frequency of the
12.12 ■ Chapter 12

54. Two vibrating tuning forks producing progressive 61. Two wires are in unison. If the tension in one of the
waves given by: wires is increased by 2%, 5 beats are produced per
y1 = 4 sin (500π t) and y2 = 2 sin (506π t), second. The initial frequency of each wire is
are held near the ear of a person. If the number of (a) 200 Hz (b) 400 Hz
beats heard per second be B and the ratio of maxi- (c) 500 Hz (d) 1000 Hz
mum to minimum intensity be A, then 62. Two waves are represented by: y1 = 4 sin 404 π t and
(a) B = 3 and A = 2 (b) B = 3 and A = 9 y2 = 3 sin 400 p t. Then
(c) B = 6 and A = 2 (d) B = 6 and A = 9 (a) beat frequency is 4 Hz and the ratio of maximum
55. When two tuning forks A and B are sounded together, to minimum intensity is 49 : 1
x beats/sec are heard. Frequency of A is n. Now when (b) beat frequency is 2 Hz and the ratio of maximum
one prong of fork B is loaded with a little wax, the to minimum intensity is 49 : 1
number of beats/sec decreases. The frequency of fork (c) beat frequency is 2 Hz and the ratio of maximum
B is to minimum intensity is 1 : 49
(a) n + x (b) n – x (d) beat frequency is 4 Hz and the ratio of maximum
(c) n – x2 (d) n – 2x to minimum intensity is 1 : 49
56. When two waves of almost equal frequencies n1 and 63. A sound wave is passing through an air column.
n2 are produced simultaneously, then the time inter- During the consequent compressions and rarefactions
val between successive maxima is (a) total amount of heat remains constant
1 1 1
(a) (b) − (b) Boyle’s law is obeyed
n1 − n2 n1 n2 (c) density remains constant
1 1 1 (d) bulk modulus of air oscillates
(c) + (d)
n1 n2 n1 + n2 64. ‘Stationary waves’ are so called because in them
57. On sounding tuning fork A with another tuning fork (a) there occurs no flow of energy along the wave
B of frequency 384 Hz, 6 beats are produced per sec- (b) the particles of the medium do not execute SHM
ond. After loading the prongs of A with some wax (c) the particles of the medium are not dis-
and then sounding it again with B, 4 beats are pro- turbed at all
duced per second. What is the frequency of the tun- (d) the interference effect cannot be observed
ing fork A? 65. In a stationary sound wave produced in air
(a) 388 Hz (b) 378 Hz (a) each air particle executes vibrations with the
(c) 380 Hz (d) 390 Hz same amplitude
58. Three waves of equal frequency having amplitudes (b) amplitude of vibration is maximum at some
10 mm, 4 mm and 7 mm arrive at a given point with places
successive phase difference of π/2; the amplitude of (c) air particles are stationary
the resulting wave (in mm) is given by (d) the particles do not execute periodic motion
(a) 7 (b) 6
(c) 5 (d) 4 66. When stationary waves are set up, pick out the cor-
59. The frequency of tuning fork A is 2% more than the rect statement from the following
frequency of a standard tuning fork. The frequency (a) All the particles in the medium are in the same
of a tuning fork B is 3% less than the frequency of phase of vibration at all times and distances
same standard tuning fork. If 6 beats per second are (b) The particles with an interval between two con-
heard when the two tuning forks A and B are excited, secutive nodes are in phase, but the particles in two
the frequency of A is such consecutive intervals are of opposite phase
(a) 120 Hz (b) 122.4 Hz (c) The phase lag along the path of the wave increas-
(c) 116.4 Hz (d) 130 Hz es as the distance from the source increases
60. Two tuning forks or frequencies n1 and n2 produces (d) Only antinodes are in same phase
n beats per second. if n2 and n are known, n1 may be 67. In a stationary wave
given by (a) strain is maximum at antinodes
n2 (b) strain is maximum at nodes
(a) + n2 (b) n2n
n n (c) strain is minimum at nodes
(c) n2 ± n (d) 2 − n2 (d) strain is constant throughout
n
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.13

68. The equation of a plane progressive wave is 74. In a stationary wave there is
(a) neither energy current nor energy density
 x
y = 0.09 sin 8π  t −  , (b) no energy current but there is energy density
 20 
(c) energy current nut no energy density
When it is reflected at rigid support, its amplitude (d) both energy current and energy density
becomes (2/3)rd of its previous value. The equation 75. A standing wave having 3 nodes and 2 antinodes is
of the reflected wave is formed between two atoms having a distance of
 x 1.21 Å between them. The wavelength of the stand-
(a) y = 0.09 sin 8π  t − 
 20  ing wave is
(a) 1.21 Å (b) 2.42 Å
 x (c) 6.05 Å (d) 3.63 Å
(b) y = 0.06 sin 8π  t − 
 20  76. Plane simple harmonic progressive waves of wave-
 x lengths 120 cm and speed 34800 cm/sec are incident
(c) y = 0.06 sin 8π  t +  normally on a plane surface which is a perfect reflec-
 20 
tor of sound. Stationary waves are formed. The ratio
 x of amplitudes of vibrations at points distant (i) 10 cm
(d) y = – 0.06 sin 8π  t + 
 20  (ii) 30 cm from the reflector is
69. For the stationary wave: (a) 1 : 2 (b) 1 : 0
y = 4 sin (πx/15) cos (96πt), (c) 1 : 1 (d) 1 : 4
the distance between a node and the next antinode is 77. In stationary waves, antinodes are the points where
(a) 7.5 (b) 15 there is
(c) 22.5 (d) 30 (a) minimum displacement and minimum pressure
70. In the equation y = 4 cos (2πx/50) sin 100 πt, y repre- change
sents the displacement of a particle at the distance x (b) minimum displacement and maximum pressure
from the origin and at the time t. Then, a node occurs change
at the following distance (c) maximum displacement and maximum pressure
(a) 12.5 cm (b) 50 cm change
(c) 20 cm (d) (100/2π) cm (d) maximum displacement and minimum pressure
71. In the case of stationary waves all the particles of the change
medium between two nodes vibrate 78. Two organ pipes give 4 beats when sounded together
(a) in phase but with different amplitudes and time at 27ºC. Calculate the number of beat at 127ºC
periods (a) 4.6 beats/sec (b) 3.9 beats/sec
(b) in phase and with same amplitude and time pe- (c) 4 beats/sec (d) none of these
riod 79. Standing waves can be obtained in an air column
(c) in phase with the same time period but different even if interfering waves are
amplitudes (a) of different pitches
(d) with the same time period but in different phases (b) of different amplitudes
and with different amplitudes (c) of different qualities
72. In a stationary wave (d) moving with different velocities
(a) energy is uniformly distributed 80. There are two organ pipes of exactly the same
(b) energy is maximum at nodes and minimum at length and material but of different radii. The loss
antinodes of sound will be
(c) energy is minimum at nodes and maximum at (a) more from a wider pipe
antinodes (b) more from a narrower pipe
(d) alternating maxima and minima of energy are (c) same for both pipes
produced at nodes and antinodes (d) none of the above
73. y = a cos (kx – w t) superposes on another wave giv- 81. A stretched string instead of being plucked in the mid-
ing a stationary wave having node at x = 0. What is dle is plucked at a point (1/4)th of its length from either
the equation of the other wave? of its ends. The frequency of vibration would be
(a) a cos (kx + w t) (b) a cos (kx – w t) (a) four times when plucked in the middle
(c) – a cos (kx + w t) (d) – a sin (kx + w t) (b) twice when plucked in the middle
12.14 ■ Chapter 12

(c) eight times when plucked in the middle 89. A thin closed organ pipe and a thin open organ pipe
(d) same as when plucked in the middle are of equal lengths; the ratio of the frequency of
82. With an open end organ pipe of length L, the funda- their third overtones will be
mental tone has a frequency (a) 7: 8 (b) 8: 7
(a) (v/2L) and only even harmonics are present (c) 7: 4 (d) 1: 1
(b) (v/2L) and only odd harmonics are present 90. Two strings with masses per unit length of 25 gm/cm
(c) (v/2L) and even as well as odd harmonics are and 9 gm/cm are joined together in series. The reflec-
present tion coefficients for the vibration waves are
(d) (v/4L) and only odd harmonics are present (a) 9/25 (b) 3/5
83. With the increase in temperature, the frequency of (c) 1/16 (d) 9/16
the sound from an organ pipe 91. If an open organ pipe is sounded with a tuning fork
(a) decreases having frequency 256 Hz, resonance occurs at 35 cm
(b) increases and 105 cm, the velocity of sound is
(c) remains unchanged (a) 360 m/s (b) 512 m/s
(d) changes erratically (c) 524 m/s (d) all of these
84. An open pipe of length 33 cm resonates to a fre- 92. A closed organ pipe (closed at one end) is excited so
quency of 1000 Hz. It is as to support the third overtone. It is then found that
(a) fundamental frequency of pipe there are in the pipe
(b) first harmonic of pipe (a) three nodes and three antinodes
(c) second harmonic of pipe (b) three nodes and four antinodes
(d) fourth harmonic of pipe (c) four nodes and three antinodes
85. There are two open organ pipes of exactly the same (d) four nodes and four antinodes
length and material but different radii. The frequen- 93. An organ pipe open at both the ends and another
cies of their fundamental notes will be organ pipe closed at one end will resonate with each
(a) wider pipe has lower frequency other, if their lengths are in the ratio of
(b) narrower pipe has lower frequency (a) 1: 1 (b) 1: 4
(c) both the pipes have same frequency (c) 2: 1 (d) 1: 2
(d) none of the above 94. An organ pipe P1 closed at one end vibrating in its
86. With a closed end organ pipe of length L, the funda- first harmonic and another pipe P2 open at both ends
mental tone has a frequency vibrating in its third harmonic are in resonance with
(a) (v/2L) and all harmonics are present a given tuning fork. The ratio of the length of P1 to
(b) (v/4L) and all harmonics are present that of P2 is
(c) (v/4L) and only odd harmonics are present (a) 8/3 (b) 3/8
(d) (v/4L) and only even harmonics are present (c) 1/2 (d) 1/3
87. Two wires with different densities are joined at x = 0. 95. A resonating column has resonant frequencies as 100
An incident wave: Hz, 300 Hz, 500 Hz. Then, it may be
yi = ai sin (w t – k1x), (a) an open pipe
travelling from left to right is partly reflected and partly (b) a pipe closed at both ends
transmitted at x = 0. If the amplitude of reflected and (c) pipe closed at one end
transmitted waves be ar and at respectively, then ar/ai is (d) none of these
96. A student finds out the velocity of sound with the
2k1 2k 2 help of a closed organ pipe. If the required length of
(a) (b)
k1 + k2 k1 + k2 pipe for the fundamental resonance frequency is 24.7
m, then length for third resonance frequency will be
k1 − k2 k1 − k2
(c) (d) (a) 74.1 m (b) 72.7 m
k1 + k2 k1 + k2 (c) 75.4 m (d) 73.1 m
88. In the Q. 87, at /ar is 97. The speed of sound in air is 333 m/s. The fundamen-
2k1 2k 2 tal frequency of the open pipe is 333 Hz. The sec-
(a) (b) ond overtone of the open organ pipe can be produced
k1 + k2 k1 + k2
with a pipe of length
k1 − k2 k1 − k2 (a) 0.5 m (b) 1.0 m
(c) (d)
k1 + k2 k1 + k2 (c) 1.5 m (d) 2.0 m
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.15

98. An open pipe is suddenly closed with the result that (a) 150 cm (b) 50 cm
the second overtone of the closed pipe is found to be (c) 100 cm (d) 200 cm
higher in frequency by 100 Hz than the first overtone 100. If L1 and L2 are the lengths of the first and second
of the original pipe. The fundamental frequency of resonating air columns in a resonance tube, then the
open pipe will be wavelength of the note produced is
(a) 100 Hz (b) 300 Hz (a) 2(L2 + L1) (b) 2(L2 – L1)
(c) 150 Hz (d) 200 Hz  L  L
99. In a closed organ pipe, the 1st resonance occurs at (c) 2  L2 − 1  (d) 2  L2 + 1 
 2  2
50 cm. At what length of pipe, the 2nd resonance will
occur?

ANSWER KEYS

1. (c) 2. (d) 3. (d) 4. (b) 5. (b) 6. (b) 7. (b) 8. (c) 9. (b) 10. (b)
11. (b) 12. (c) 13. (d) 14. (b) 15. (c) 16. (c) 17. (a) 18. (d) 19. (a) 20. (b)
21. (c) 22. (d) 23. (a) 24. (c) 25. (c) 26. (d) 27. (b) 28. (a) 29. (c) 30. (c)
31. (a) 32. (c) 33. (b) 34. (a) 35. (c) 36. (c) 37. (d) 38. (d) 39. (a) 40. (d)
41. (c) 42. (b) 43. (b) 44. (d) 45. (a) 46. (a) 47. (b) 48. (d) 49. (a) 50. (b)
51. (c) 52. (b) 53. (a) 54. (b) 55. (a) 56. (a) 57. (d) 58. (c) 59. (c) 60. (c)
61. (c) 62. (b) 63. (a) 64. (a) 65. (b) 66. (b) 67. (b) 68. (d) 69. (a) 70. (a)
71. (c) 72. (c) 73. (c) 74. (b) 75. (a) 76. (a) 77. (d) 78. (a) 79. (b) 80. (a)
81. (b) 82. (c) 83. (b) 84. (c) 85. (d) 86. (c) 87. (c) 88. (a) 89. (a) 90. (c)
91. (a) 92. (d) 93. (c) 94. (b) 95. (a) 96. (a) 97. (a) 98. (d) 99. (a) 100. (b)

HINTS AND EXPLANATIONS FOR SELECTED QUESTIONS

1. We know that longitudinal waves travel in an elastic Now, for total internal reflection,
medium in the form of compressions and rarefac- angle of incidence > C, i.e., > 30º
tions which changes its volume, elasticity and pres-
Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
sure. Since, air is completely an elastic medium,
i.e., it does not have a modulus of rigidity, therefore 10. Velocity = frequency × wavelength
sound waves in air are always longitudinal. In glass: 5400 × 100 = n × 90
Hence, the correct answer is option (c). 5400 × 100
⇒ n= cps
8. Phase difference of 1.6 π corresponds to path differ- 90
ence of 40 cm. Hence, phase difference of 2π will cor- 330 × 100 5400 × 100
respond to a path difference of 50 cm i.e., l = 50 cm In air: =n=
l 90
or 0.5 m
330 × 100 × 90
v 330 ∴ l= = 5.5 cm
∴ n= = = 660 Hz 5400 × 100
l 0.5
Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
13. Distance covered by the sound to reach the student
2v 1 distance covered by jet
9. µ = = where C = critical angle =
v sin C cos 60°
v
1 ∴ Velocity of jet = velocity of sound × cos 60º =
∴ sin C = or C = 30º 2
2 Hence, the correct answer is option (d).
12.16 ■ Chapter 12

14. Distance covered by the sound to reach the person = 38. Imax. = ( I1 + I 2 ) 2
distance covered by jet × cot 60º
Imin. = ( I1 − I 2 ) 2
velocity of sound v
∴ Velocity of jet = = ∴ Imax. + Imin. = 2(I1 + I2)
3 3
Hence, the correct answer is option (b). Hence, the correct answer is option (d).
g RT 39. Let ϕ1 and ϕ2 represent phase-angles of the first and
17. As n = , second waves, then
M 2p 2p
∆v 1 ∆T ϕ2 = [(vt – x) + xo] and ϕ1 = (vt – x)
∴ = l l
v 2 T 2p
ϕ2 – ϕ1 = xo
∆v 1 1 l
100 ×= × × 100 = 0.167% l
v 2 300 But xo = , ∴ ϕ2 – ϕ1 = π
Hence, the correct answer is option (a). 2
Hence, phase difference, ϕ = π. So, amplitude of
20. L = 10 log (I/Io) or 60 = 10 log (I/Io) resultant wave
or log (I/Io) = 6 or (I/Io) = 106 watt/m2
R= a 2 + b 2 + 2ab cosf
∴ I = Io × 106 = 10–12 × 106 = 10–6 watt/m2
∴ P = power = intensity × area = 10–6 × 2 = 2 µW = a 2 + b 2 + 2ab cosp = ( a − b) 2 = a – b
and E = energy = P × t = 2 × 10–6 × 5 × 60 × 60 or R = a−b
= 36 × 10–3 J Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
Hence, the correct answer is option (b). 47. The increase in tension increases the frequency of
I  the note produced by the string. As the increase in
21. As P ∝ I, ∴ L2 – L1 = 10 log  2  tension produces fewer beats per second, hence the
 I1 
frequency of string is 470 Hz.
P   400  Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
= 10 log  2  = 10 log  = 10 log 20 ≅ 13 dB
 P1   20 
50. There will be no interference as the sources have
Hence, the correct answer is option (c). random phases. Only general illumination occurs.
Hence, intensity is 10Io.
32. I = I1 + I2 + 2( I1 I 2 ) cos ϕ Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
= Io + 4Io + 2( ( I o )( 4 I o ) cos ϕ 51. Let the frequency of first fork be n. Then, the fre-
= 5Io + 4Io cos ϕ quency of last fork is 2n. Since, the successive tuning
As ϕ = 0, so cos ϕ = 1 fork gives four beats, then
∴ I = 5Io + 4Io = 9Io frequency of first fork = n
frequency of second fork = n + 4
Hence, the correct answer is option (c). frequency of third fork = n + 8 = n + 2 × 4
37. To observe interference, we need two sources with Frequency of Nth fork = n + (N – 1)4
the same frequency and with a constant phase differ- As Nth fork is the last fork, so
ence. In the given waves,
2n = n + (N – 1)4
X1 = a1 sin w t and X4 = a1 sin (w t + δ) or n = (N – 1)4 or 256 = (N – 1)4
have a constant phase difference δ, so interference ∴ N = 65
is possible between them. Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
For X1 = a1 sin w t and X2 = a2 sin 2w t, frequency is 60. Beat frequency = number of beats/sec
not equal and there is no constant phase difference. n = n2 ~ n1
For X1 = a1 sin w t and X3 = a1 sin w 1t, frequency is ∴ n1 = n2 ± n
different and there is no constant phase difference Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
Hence, the correct answer is option (d).
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.17

62. Given: y1 = 4 sin 404 π t, y2 = 3 sin 400 π t 2p x

∴ ω1 = 404 π, ω2 = 400 π, A1 = 4, A2 = 3 A = −2a sin
l
ω1 = 2πn1 Here, l = 120 cm, when x = 10 cm
or 404 π = 2πn1 or n1 = 202 Hz  10  2p
Then, A′ = –2a sin 2π   = −2a sin =–a
ω2 = 2πn2  120  12
or 404 π = 2πn2 or n2 = 202 Hz When x = 30 cm, then
Beat frequency = n1 – n2 = 202 – 200 = 2 Hz  30 
A′′ = –2a sin 2π  = – 2a
2 2 2
 120 
I max .  A + A2   4 + 3  7 49
∴ =  1 =  =   =
I min .  A1 − A2   4 − 3   1 1 ∴
A′
=
−a
=
1
A′′ −2a 2
Hence, the correct answer is option (b). Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
73. Stationary wave is formed by superposition of two 81. When string is plucked in the middle, then an anti-
identical waves travelling in opposite directions. node is formed in the middle with two nodes at the
Given wave is y = a cos (kx – w t). The other wave fixed ends. In that case
can’t be y = – a cos (kx – w t) as their directions are not
opposite. The other possible cosine function can be: (l/2) = L or l = 2L
Hence, n = (v/l) = v/2L
y = – a cos (kx + w t) When string is plucked at a point (1/4)th of its length,
Their directions are opposite to each other then one extra node and antinode is formed between
∴ ys = a cos (kx – w t) – a cos (kx + w t) two ends, i.e., now 2(l′/2) = L or l′ = L
= 2a sin kx sin w t and n′ = (v/l′) = (v/L) = 2n
At = 0, ys = 0 Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
Hence, a node is formed at x = 0 90. Let Ir and Ii represent the intensities of reflected and
∴ The equation of other wave = – a cos (kx + w t) incident waves respectively; then
Hence, the correct answer is option (c). Ir  m − 1
2
v
=   , where µ = 1
2p Ii  m + 1 v2
76. yi = a sin ( vt − x )
l
2p T / m1 m2 25 5
and yr = − a sin ( vt + x ) ⇒ µ= = = =
l T / m2 m1 9 3
2
2p x 2p vt Ir  (5 / 3) − 1 1
∴ y = yi + yr = −2a sin cos ⇒ =   = 16
l l Ii  ( 5 / 3) + 1 
Now, amplitude A of stationary wave is given Hence, the correct answer is option (c).

PREVIOUS YEARS’ QUESTIONS

1. Two stationary sources each emitting waves of wave- 1 1 1 1
(a) = + + (b) n = n1 × n2 × n3
length l, an observer moves from one source to another n n1 n2 n3
with velocity u. Then number of beats heard by him n1 + n2 + n3
2u u (c) n = n1 + n2 + n3 (d) n =
(a) (b) 3
l l [AIPMT 2000]
u 3. In a transverse progressive wave of amplitude a, the
(c) ul (d)
2l maximum particle velocity is four times its wave
[AIPMT 2000] velocity. Then, the wavelength of the wave is
2. A string is cut into three parts, having fundamental (a) 2π a (b) π a
frequencies n1, n2, n3 respectively. Then original fun- (c) π a/2 (d) π a/4
damental frequency n related by the expression as [AFMC 2000]
12.18 ■ Chapter 12

4. A source and an observer move away from each (a) 2 (b) 2

other with a velocity of 10 m s–1 w.r.t. ground. If the
(c) 3 (d) 1
observer finds the frequency of sound coming from
[AFMC 2002]
the source as 1,950 Hz, then actual frequency of the
11. An observer moves towards a stationary, source of
source is: (velocity of sound in air = 340 m s–1)
sound with a speed 1/5th of the speed of sound.
(a) 2,486 Hz (b) 2,132 Hz
The wavelength and frequency of the source emit-
(c) 2,068 Hz (d) 1,950 Hz
ted are l and f respectively. The apparent frequency
[AFMC 2000]
and wavelength recorded by the observer are
respectively
5. If the tension and diameter of a sonometer wire of (a) 1.2 f, 1.2 l (b) 1.2 f, l
fundamental frequency n is doubled and density (c) f, 1.2 l (d) 0.8 f, 0.8 l
is halved then its fundamental frequency will [AIPMT 2003]
become
12. Of the two similar waves one is propagating along
n X-axis and the other one along y-axis. When they
(a) (b) 2n
4 meet to superimpose, the resultant wave will be
n
(c) n (d) (a) elliptical (b) hyperbolic
2 (c) straight line (d) parabolic
[AIPMT 2001] [AFMC 2003]
6. Two organ pipes sounded together given 5 beat per 13. A car is moving towards a high cliff. The driver
second. If their lengths are in the ratio of 50 : 51, then sounds horn of frequency f. The reflected sound
the frequency of shorter and longer pipes (in Hz) are heard by the driver has frequency 2f. If v is the veloc-
respectively ity of sound, then the velocity of the car, in the same
(a) 250, 245 (b) 245, 250 velocity units, will be
(c) 250, 255 (d) 255, 250
[AFMC 2001] v
(a) (b) v/3
7. A whistle revolves in a circle with angular speed 2
ω = 20 rad/sec using a string of length 50 cm. If the (c) v/4 (d) v/2
frequency of sound from the whistle is 385 Hz, then
what is the minimum frequency heard by an observer [AIPMT 2004]
which is far away from the centre (velocity of 14. Apparatus used to find out velocity of sound in gas is
sound = 340 m/s) (a) Melde’s apparatus (b) Kundt’s tube
(a) 385 Hz (b) 374 Hz (c) Quincke’s tube (d) none of the above
(c) 394 Hz (d) 333 Hz [AFMC 2004]
[AIPMT 2002] 15. A point source emits sound equally in all directions
8. In a sinusoidal wave, the time required for a particu- in a non-absorbing medium. Two points P and Q are
lar point to move from maximum displacement is at distances of 2 m and 3 m respectively from the
0.17 s. Then, the frequency of the wave will be source. The ratio of the intensities of the waves at P
(a) 1.47 Hz (b) 2.94 Hz and Q is
(c) 4.17 Hz (d) 0.92 Hz (a) 3 : 2 (b) 2 : 3
[AFMC 2002] (c) 9 : 4 (d) 4 : 9
9. A standing wave is represented by y = a sin (100t) [AIPMT 2005]
cos (0.01x), where t is in second and x is in metres. 16. When a tuning fork produces sound waves in air,
Then, the velocity of the wave is which one of the following is same in the material of
(a) 0.01 m s–1 (b) 0.0001 m s–1 tuning fork as well as in air?
(c) 1 m s–1 (d) 10,000 m s–1 (a) Wavelength (b) Frequency
[AFMC 2002] (c) Velocity (d) Amplitude
[AFMC 2005]
10. The amplitude of the vibrating particle due to super
position of two simple harmonic motions of y1 = 17. Two vibrating tuning forks produce waves given by
a sin(w t + π/3) and y2 = sinw t will be y1 = 4 sin 500πt and y2 = 2 sin 506πt. Number of
beats produced per minutes is
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.19

(a) 360 (b) 180 22. The intensity of sound increases at night due to
(c) 60 (d) 3 (a) increase in density of air
[AIPMT 2006] (b) decrease in density of air
18. Two sound waves with wavelengths 5.0 m and 5.5 m (c) low temperature
respectively, each propagates in a gas with velocity (d) None of the above
330 m/s. We expect the following number of beats per [AFMC 2007]
second. 23. The fundamental frequency of a closed pipe is
(a) 6 (b) 12 220 Hz. If one-fourth of the pipe is filled with water,
(c) 0 (d) 1 the frequency of the first overtone of the pipe now is
[AIPMT 2006] (a) 220 Hz (b) 440 Hz
19. The time of reverberation of a room A is one second. (c) 800 Hz (d) 1,760 Hz
What will be the time (in seconds) of reverberation [AFMC 2007]
of a room, having all the dimensions double of those 24. A tuning fork A produces 4 beats s–1 with another
of the room A? tuning fork B of frequency 320 Hz. On filling one
(a) 2 (b) 4 of the prongs of A, 4 beats s–1 are again heard, when
(c) 1/2 (d) 1 sounded with the same fork B. Then, the frequency
[AFMC 2006] of the fork A before filing is
20. Which one of the following statements is true? (a) 316 Hz (b) 320 Hz
(a) both light and sound waves can travel in vacuum (c) 324 Hz (d) 328 Hz
(b) both light and sound waves in air are transverse [AFMC 2008]
(c) the sound waves in air are longitudinal while the 25. The loudness and pitch of a sound note depends on
light waves are transverse (a) intensity and frequency
(d) both light and sound waves in air are longitudi- (b) frequency and number of harmonics
nal (c) intensity and velocity
[AIPMT 2006] (d) frequency and velocity
21. A closed organ pipe of length 20 cm is sounded with [AFMC 2008]
a tuning fork in resonance. If the velocity of sound in
air is 332 m s–1, what is the frequency of tuning fork?
(a) 300 Hz (b) 350 Hz
(c) 375 Hz (d) 415 Hz
[AFMC 2006]

ANSWER KEYS
1. (a) 2. (a) 3. (c) 4. (c) 5. (c) 6. (d) 7. (b) 8. (a) 9. (d) 10. (c)
11. (b) 12. (c) 13. (b) 14. (b) 15. (c) 16. (c) 17. (b) 18. (a) 19. (b) 20. (a)
21. (d) 22. (a) 23. (c) 24. (a) 25. (a)

HINTS AND EXPLANATIONS FOR SELECTED QUESTIONS

v−u v+u 2. As n ∝ (1/l) and l = l1 + l2 + l3
1. n ′ = n ; n ′′= n
v v 1 1 1 1
2u ∴ = + + .
No. of beats = n ′′ – n ′ = n n1 n2 n3
l
Hence, the correct answer is option (a). Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
12.20 ■ Chapter 12

1 T 2nd cliff is now source. It emits frequency f ′ and the

5. n = observer is now the driver who observers f ′′.
2l p r 2r
 v + vo   v + vo 
r f ′′ =   f′ or 2f =  f
 v 
ρ ′ = ; T ′ = 2T and D ′ = 2D or r ′ = 2r  v − vs 
2
⇒ 2v – 2vo = v + vo ⇒ v = vo + 2vo [as vs = vo]
1 2T 1 2T v
n′ = = = n. ⇒ vo =
2l r 2l p r 2l 3
p ( 2r ) 2
2
Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
15. d1 = 2 m, d2 = 3 m
7. The whistle is revolving in a circle of radius 50 cm.
So the source (whistle) is moving and the observer 1 1 1
Intensity ∝ i.e., I1 ∝ 2 and I2 ∝ 2
is fixed. The minimum frequency will be heard by (distance) 2 2 3
the observer when the linear velocity of the whistle
(source) will be in a direction as shown in the figure, I1 9
∴ =
i.e. when the source is receding. I2 4
Observer s Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
17. Y1 = 4 sin 500π t, Y2 = 2 sin 506π t
cm ω1 = 500π, ω1 = 2πn, n1 = 250, n2 = 253
50
r= ω = 20 rad/s n = n2 – n1 = 253 – 250 = 3 beats/s.
The apparent frequency heard by the observer is then Number of beats per minute = 3 × 60 = 180
v Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
given by n ′ = n
v+u
where v and u are the velocities of sound and source velocity
18. Frequency =
respectively and n is the actual frequency. wavelength
Now, v = rω = 0.5 × 20 = 10 m/s
v 330 v 330
v = 340 m/s, n = 385 Hz. ∴ n1 = = = 66 Hz and n2 = = = 60 Hz
l1 5 l2 5.5
340
∴ n ′ = 385 × = 374 Hz. Number of beats per second = n1 – n2
340 + 10
= 66 – 60 = 6.
Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
v + vo 0.61V
11. Apparent frequency f ′ = f 19. Reverberation time, T =
v aS
v + (1 / 5)v where V is the volume of room in cubic metres, a is
f = 1.2 f
= the average absorption coefficient of the room, S is
v
the total surface area of room in square metres.
Wavelength does not change by motion of observer.
V
Hence, the correct answer is option (b). i.e., T ∝
S
13. 1st the car is the source and at the cliff, one
observes f ′. T1 V   S   V   4S  1
⇒ =  1 2 =    =
T2  V2   S1   8V   S  2
v
∴ f′= f
v − vs ⇒ T2 = 2T1 = 2 × 1 = 2 sec (T1 = 1sec) .
Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.21

QUESTIONS FROM NCERT EXEMPLAR

1. One requires 11eV of energy to dissociate a carbon (a) Er = − E0 ˆicos(kz − w t)
monoxide molecule into carbon and oxygen atoms. (b) E r = E0 ˆicos(kz + w t)
The minimum frequency of the appropriate electro-
magnetic radiation to achieve the dissociation lies in (c) Er = − E0 iˆcos(kz + w t)
(a) visible region (d) Er = E0 iˆsin(kz − w t)
(b) infrared region
3. Light with an energy flux of 20 W/cm2 falls on a non-
(c) ultraviolet region
reflecting surface at normal incidence. If the surface
(d) microwave region
has an area of 30 cm2. the total momentum delivered
2. A linearly polarized electromagnetic wave given
(for complete absorption) during 30 minutes is
as E = E0 ˆicos(kz − w t) is incident normally on a (a) 36 × 10–5 kg m/s
perfectly reflecting infinite wall at z = a. Assuming (b) 36 × 10–4 kg m/s
that the material of the wall is optically inactive, the (c) 108 × 104 kg m/s
reflected wave will be given as (d) 1.08 × 107 kg m/s

ANSWER KEYS

1. (c) 2. (b) 3. (b)

HINTS & SOLUTIONS FOR SELECTED QUESTIONS

1. E = h f 2. Wave doesnot change but its phase changes by 180
11 eV – 6.62 × 10–34 J-s when wave is reflected from denser medium.
Hence, the correct answer is option (c). Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
12.22 ■ Chapter 12

AIIMS-ESSENTIALS

ASSERTION AND REASON

In the following questions, a statement of assertion is 5. Assertion: The speed of sound in solids is maximum
followed by a statement of reason. You are required to though their density is large.
choose the correct one out of the given five responses and Reason: The coefficient of elasticity of solid is large.
mark it as 6. Assertion: On a rainy day sound travels slower than
(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is on a dry day.
the correct explanation of the assertion. Reason: When moisture is present in air the density
(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is of air increases.
not correct explanation of the assertion. 7. Assertion: It is not possible to have interference
(c) If assertion is true, but reason is false. between the waves produced by two violins.
(d) If both assertion and reason are false. Reason: For interference of two waves the phase dif-
(e) If reason is true but assertion is false. ference between the waves must remain constant.
1. Assertion: Sound would travel faster on a hot sum- 8. Assertion: In the case of a stationary wave, a person
mer day than on a cold winter day. hear a loud sound at the nodes as compared to the
Reason: Velocity of sound is directly proportional to antinodes.
the square of absolute temperature. Reason: In a stationary wave all the particles of the
medium vibrate in phase.
2. Assertion: The basic of Laplace correction was that,
9. Assertion: Where two vibrating tuning forks having
exchange of heat between the region of compression
frequencies 256 Hz and 512 Hz are held near each
and rarefaction in air is not possible.
other, beats cannot be heard.
Reason: Air is a bad conductor of heat and velocity
Reason: The principle of superposition is valid
of sound in air is large.
only if the frequencies of the oscillators are nearly
3. Assertion: A tuning fork is made of an alloy of steel, equal.
nickel and chromium. 10. Assertion: Velocity of particles, while crossing mean
Reason: The alloy of steel, nickel and chromium is position (in stationary waves) varies from maximum
called elinvar. at antinodes to zero at nodes.
4. Assertion: The change in air pressure affects the Reason: Amplitude of vibration at antinodes is
speed of sound. maximum and at nodes, the amplitude is zero, And
Reason: The speed of sound in a gas is proportional all particles between two successive nodes cross the
to square root of pressure. mean position together.

ANSWER KEYS

1. (c) 2. (a) 3. (b) 4. (e) 5. (a) 6. (d) 7. (a) 8. (c) 9. (c) 10. (a)

HINTS AND EXPLANATIONS FOR SELECTED QUESTIONS

1. The velocity of sound in a gas is directly propor- 2. According to Laplace, the changes in pressure and
tional to the square root of its absolute temperature volume of a gas, when sound waves propagated
g RT through it, are not isothermal, but adiabatic. A gas
(as v = ). Since temperature of a hot day is more is a bad conductor of heat. It does not allow the free
M
than cold winter day, therefore sound would travel exchange of heat between compressed layer, rarefied
faster on a hot summer day than on a cold winter day. layer and surrounding.
Hence, the correct answer is option (c). Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.23

3. A tuning fork is made of a material for which elastic- waves produced by two different violins does not inter-
ity does not change. Since the alloy of nickel, steel fere because two waves interfere only when the phase
and chromium (elinvar) has constant elasticity, there- difference between them remain constant throughout.
fore it is used for the making of tuning fork. Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
Hence, the correct answer is option (b). 8. The person will hear the loud sound at nodes than at
4. Assertion is false but reason is true. antinodes. We know that at anti-nodes the displace-
Hence, the correct answer is option (e). ment is maximum and pressure change is minimum
gP while at nodes the displacement is zero and pressure
5. The velocity of sound in solid is given by, v = .
r change is maximum. The sound is heard due to varia-
For monoatomic gas γ = 1.67; for diatomic γ = 1.40. tion of pressure.
Therefore v is larger in case of monoatomic gas com- Also in stationary waves particles in two different
pared to its values in diatomic gas. segment vibrates in opposite phase.
Hence, the correct answer is option (a). Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
6. When moisture is present in air, the density of air 9. The principle of superposition does not state that the
decreases. It is because the density of water vapours is frequencies of the oscillation should be nearly equal.
less than that of dry air. The velocity of sound is inversely For beats to be heard the condition is that difference
proportional to the square root of density, hence sound in frequencies of the two oscillations should not be
travels faster in moist air than in the dry air. Therefore, more than 10 Hz for a normal human ear to recognise
on a rainy day sound travels faster than on a dry day. it. Hence we cannot hear beats in the case of two tun-
ing forks vibrating at frequencies 256 Hz and 512 Hz
Hence, the correct answer is option (d).
respectively
7. Since the initial phase difference between the two waves
Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
coming from different violins changes, therefore, the

PREVIOUS YEARS’ QUESTIONS

SECTION - I (ASSERTION-REASON TYPE) Reason: Sound waves are longitudinal waves and
they cannot be polarised but electromagnetic waves
are transverse and they can be polarised.
In the following questions, a statement of assertion is [2007]
followed by a statement of reason. You are required to 3. Assertion: In a stationary wave, there is no transfer
choose the correct one out of the given four responses and of energy.
mark it as Reason: There is no outward motion of the distur-
(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is bance from one particle to adjoining particle in a sta-
the correct explanation of the assertion. tionary wave.
(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is [2014]
not correct explanation of the assertion. 4. Assertion: Sound would travel faster on a hot sum-
(c) If assertion is true, but reason is false. mer day than on cold winter day.
Reason: Velocity of sound is directly proportional to
(d) If both assertion and reason are false.
the square of its absolute temperature.
(e) If reason is true but assertion is false.
[2014]
1. Assertion: When two vibrating tunning forks having
frequencies 256 Hz and 512 Hz are held near each SECTION - II (MULTIPLE CHOICE
other, beats cannot be heared.
QUESTIONS TYPE)
Reason: The principle of superposition is valid
only if the frequencies of the oscillators are nearly 1. The frequency of a tuning fork is 256. It will not
equal. resonate with a fork of frequency
[AIIMS 1994] (a) 738 (b) 256
(c) 768 (d) 512
2. Assertion: Sound waves cannot travel in vacuum but [AIIMS 1994]
light can travel in vacuum.
12.24 ■ Chapter 12

2. A tube closed at one end containing air produces fun- (a) 920 m/s (b) 720 m/s
damental note of frequency will be (c) 820 m/s (d) 360 m/s
(a) 1024 Hz (b) 256 Hz [1999]
(c) 1280 Hz (d) 768 Hz 11. A transverse stationary wave passes through a string
[1995] with the equation y = 10 sin π(0.02x – 2.00t) where x
3. The tension in piano wire is 10 N. What should be is in meters and t in seconds. The maximum velocity
the tension in the wire to produce a note of double of the particles in wave motion
the frequency? (a) 63 (b) 78
(a) 40 N (b) 5 N (c) 100 (d) 121
(c) 80 N (d) 20 N [2000]
[1995]
12. If fundamental frequency is 50 and next successive
4. An observer standing by the side of a road hears the
frequencies are 150 and 250 then it is
siren of an ambulance, which is moving away from
(a) a pipe closed at both end
him. If the actual frequency of the siren is 2,000 Hz,
(b) a pipe closed at one end
then the frequency heard by the observer will be
(c) an open pipe
(a) 2000 Hz (b) 1990 Hz
(d) a stretched pipe.
(c) 4000 Hz (d) 2100 Hz
[2001]
(1996)
5. A closed organ pipe and an open organ pipe of the 13. A source of frequency 240 Hz is moving towards an
same length produce four beats, when sounded observer with a velocity of 20 m/s. The observer is
together. If the length of the closed organ pipe is now moving towards the source with a velocity of
increased then the number of beats will 20 m/s. Apparent frequency heard by observer, if
(a) remains the same (b) increase velocity of sound is 340 m/s, is
(c) decrease (d) first (d) then (a) (a) 268 Hz (b) 270 Hz
[1996] (c) 360 Hz (d) 240 Hz
6. Whenever stationary waves are set up, in any [2001]
medium, then 14. A siren emitting sound of frequency 800 Hz is going
(a) condensations occur at nodes away from a static listener with a speed of 30 m/s.
(b) refractions occur at antinodes Frequency of the sound to be heard by the listener is
(c) maximum strain is experienced at the nodes (Take velocity of sound as 300 m/s)
(d) no strain is experienced at the antinodes. (a) 733.3 Hz (b) 481.2 Hz
[1997] (c) 644.8 Hz (d) 286.5 Hz
7. Standing wave are produced in 10 m long stretched [2002]
string. If the string vibrates in 5 segments and wave 15. An organ pipe closed at one end has fundamental fre-
velocity is 20 m/s, its frequency is quency of 1500 Hz. The maximum number of over-
(a) 5 Hz (b) 4 Hz tones generated by this pipe which a normal person
(c) 2 Hz (d) 10 Hz can hear is
[1998] (a) 14 (b) 13
8. Energy is not carried by which of the following (c) 6 (d) 9
wave? [2004]
(a) electromagnetic (b) transverse
16. When a guitar string is sounded with a 440 Hz
(c) stationary (d) progressive
tuning fork, a beat frequency of 5 Hz is heard. If
[1999]
the experiment is repeated with a tuning fork of
9. If vibrations of a string are to be increased by a factor
437 Hz, the beat frequency is 8 Hz. The string fre-
two, then tension in the string must be made
quency (Hz) is
(a) four times (b) half
(a) 445 (b) 435
(c) twice (d) eight times
(c) 429 (d) 448
[1999]
[2006]
10. A resonance air column of length 20 cm resonates
with a tuning fork of frequency 450 Hz. Ignoring the 17. A siren emitting sound of frequency 800 Hz is going
correction, the velocity of sound in air will be away from a static listener with a speed of 30 m/s.
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.25

The frequency of sound heard by listener is (velocity 21. What is your observation when two sources are emit-
of sound = 300 m/s) ting sound with frequency 499 Hz and 501 Hz?
(a) 727.3 Hz (b) 481.2 Hz (a) Frequency of 500 Hz is heard with change in
(c) 644.8 Hz (d) 286.5 Hz intensity take place twice.
[2007] (b) Frequency of 500 Hz is heard with change in
18. Two closed organ pipes of length 100 cm and 101 intensity take place once.
cm produces 16 beats in 20 sec. When each pipe is (c) Frequency of 2 Hz is heard with change in inten-
sounded in its fundamental mode calculate the veloc- sity take place once.
ity of sound. (d) Frequency of 2 Hz is heard with change in inten-
(a) 303 ms–1 (b) 332 ms–1 sity take place twice.
(c) 323 ms –1
(d) 300 ms–1 [2011]
[2008] 22. On the same path, the source and observer are mov-
19. A uniform string is vibrating with a fundamental fre- ing such a ways that the distance between these two
quency f. The new frequency, if radius & length both increases with the time. The speeds of source and
are doubled would be observer are same and equal to 10 ms–1 with respect
(a) 2f (b) 3f to the ground while no wind is blowing. The appar-
f f ent frequency received by observer is 1950 Hz, then
(c) (d) the original frequency must be (the speed of sound in
4 3
[2009] present medium is 340 m/s)
20. The second overtone of an open pipe has the same (a) 2068 Hz (b) 2100 Hz
frequency as the first overtone of a closed pipe 2 m (c) 1903 Hz (d) 602 Hz
long. The length of the open pipe is [2015]
(a) 8 m (b) 4 m
(c) 2 m (d) 1 m
[2010]

ANSWER KEYS

Section - I (Assertion-Reason Type)

1. (c) 2. (b) 3. (d) 4. (a)

Section - II (Multiple Choice Questions Type)

1. (a) 2. (a) 3. (a) 4. (b) 5. (b) 6. (d) 7. (a) 8. (c) 9. (a) 10. (d)
11. (a) 12. (b) 13. (b) 14. (a) 15. (c) 16. (a) 17. (a) 18. (c) 19. (c) 20. (b)
21. (a) 22. (a)

HINTS AND EXPLANATIONS FOR SELECTED QUESTIONS

Section - I (Assertion-Reason Type)
1. The principle of superposition does not state that the the case of two tuning forks vibrating at frequencies
frequencies of the oscillation should be nearly equal. 256 Hz and 512 Hz respectively.
And for beats to be beard the condition is that the Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
difference in frequencies of the two oscillations be 2. Both the assertion and reason are correct statements but
not more than 16 times per sec for a normal human the reason given is not the explanation for the assertion.
ear to recognise it. Hence we cannot bear beats in
Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
12.26 ■ Chapter 12

3. In stationary wave, total energy associated with it is 4. When the source is moving away from the observer,
twice the energy of each of incidence are reflected then the frequency of sound heard by him, must be
wave. less than the actual frequency (i.e 1990 Hz).
Large amount of energy are stored equally in stand- Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
ing waves and become trapped with the waves. 5. The fundamental frequency of the closed organ pipe
Hence, there is no transmission of energy through is given by
the wave.
v
Hence, the correct answer is option (d). vopen =
2L
4. The velocity of sound in a gas is directly proportional
to the square root of its absolute temperature The beat frequency is vopen – vclose = 4
rRT Now if we increase the length of the closed pipe then
(v = ). Since, temperature of a hot day is more the frequency vclose is going to decrease.
M
∴ The beat frequency vopen – vclose is going to increase.
than cold winter day, therefore saved would travel
faster on hot summer day than on a cold winter day. Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
Hence, the correct answer is option (a). 7. As standing waves are produced in the string and the
string is vibrating in 5 segmets, it can be shown as
Section - II (Multiple Choice Questions l
∴ 5 = 10 ⇒ l=4m
Type) 2
1 Given: Frequency of the tuning fork f = 256. We know Given, the velocity of the wave v = 20 m/s
that fork of the frequency 256 will resonate only with v 20
those forks, whose frequency is an integral multiple Frequency n = = = 5 s–1 = 5Hz
l 4
of 256 (i.e. 512 and 768). Since the frequency 738 is Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
not an integral multiple of 256, therefore it will not
resonate with the fork having frequency 256. 8. The stationary or standing wave is a superposition of
two waves of equal amplitude and frequency moving
Hence, the correct answer is option (a). in opposite direction to each other and so there is no
2. Given: Frequency of fundamental note when tube movement of the particles of the medium. That’s why
is closed n1 = 512 Hz. We know that frequency of there is no transfer of energy in the case of standing
v waves.
fundamental note for closed organ pipe n2 =
v 2l Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
and for open pipe n1 = or n2 = 2n1 = 2 × 512 =
1024 Hz. 4l 9. We know that the frequency of a mechanical wave
created in a string is given by
Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
1 T
3. Given: Initial tension in the piano wire T1 = 10 N; n=
Initial frequency of note (n1) = n and final frequency 2p m
of the note (n2) = 2n. We know that frequency (n) = ∴ To double the vibrations, tension T has to be raised
1 T by a factor of 4.
∝ T . Therefore Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
2p m
10. We know that the minimum length of the air col-
n1 T1 umn in a resonance tube corresponds to the funda-
=
n2 T2 mental mode of vibrations. Hence by ignoring end
2
correction.
 n 10 1 10
or   = . Therefore final tension = l
 2n  T 4 T1 l= ⇒ l = 4l = 4 × 20 = 80 cm = 0.8 m
4
or T2 = 10 × 4 40 N.
Resonant frequency n = 450 Hz
Hence, the correct answer is option (a). Spread of sound n = nl = 450 × 0.8 = 360 m/s
Hence, the correct answer is option (d).
 Waves and Acoustics ■ 12.27

11. y = 10 sinπ(0.02x – 2.00t) It could have been 435 Hz. It would have satisfied
440 – n = 5. But this would not have satisfied 437 Hz.
∂y
= – 20πcosπ(0.02x – 2.00t) Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
∂t
17. Here, n = 800 Hz, ns = 30 m/s, n = 300 m/s.
 ∂y 
  = 20π = 63 units. As the source is goings away from the stationary
∂t max observer, therefore,
Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
v ×n 300 × 800 300 × 800
12. For a pipe closed at one end, the frequencies are odd n′= = = = 727.3 Hz
v + vs 300 + 30 330
multiples of the fundamental frequencies.
Hence, the correct answer is option (b). Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
13. Frequency of source n = 240 Hz 18. Frequency of fundamental mode of vibrations of 1st
velocity of source ns = 20 m/s closed organ pipe,
Velocity of observer vo = 20 m/s n1 =
v
=
v
(i)
Velocity of sound n = 340 m/s 4l1 4 × 100
Given both the source and the observer are moving Frequency of fundamental mode of vibrations of 2nd
towards each other. Hence the apparent frequency of closed organ pipe,
the source is,
v v
 v + vo   340 + 20  360 n2 = = (ii)
4 l2 4 × 101
n′ = n   = 240 ×   = 240 ×
 v − vs   340 − 20  320
= 270 Hz 16
From question, n1 – n2 =
20
Hence, the correct answer is option (b).
14. Frequency of siren n = 800 Hz v v 16
⇒ − =
4 × 100 4 × 101 20
Speed of siren vs = n – no = 30 m/s
Velocity of listener vo = 0 and velocity of sound v  1 1  16
⇒ ⋅ −  =
n = 330 m/s. 4 100 101 20
From the Dopler’s law, frequency heard from siren
when it is going away from a listener is v 101 − 100  16
  =
4  101  20
 v − vo   330 − 0 
=  ×n =  × 800 = 733.3 Hz.

 v + vs   330 + 30  ⇒
v
×
1
=
16
4 101 20
Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
16 × 101 × 4
15. Human ear can hear frequencies upto 20000 Hz. So ⇒ v= = 323.2 m/s.
20
for closed pipe,
Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
nv 19. Fundamental frequency of a vibrating string is
overtone, n = = n × fundamental frequency
4L expressed as
∴ 20000 = n × 1500 ⇒ n = 13 1 T 1 T
Maximum possible harmonics obtained f= =
2L m LD pr
= 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13.......
where, D = diameter of string,
Therefore one can hear maximum upto 13th
harmonics. ρ = density of the material of string
Overtone = 7 – 1 = 6. As length L and radius are doubled, the new frequency
Hence, the correct answer is option (c). 1 T 1
f' = = f
16. n – 5 = 440 Hz n – 8 = 437 Hz ( 2 L)( 2 D ) pr 4
∴ n = 445 Hz by both the methods.
Hence, the correct answer is option (c).
12.28 ■ Chapter 12

20. Let L be the length of the open pipe. The fundamen- 21. Here, ν1 = 499 Hz, n2 = 501 Hz
tal frequency of the open pipe is given by n +n 499 + 501
Frequency heard = 1 2 = = 500 Hz
v 2 2
n= , n = velocity of sound in air
2L Since the difference in intensity is 2, change in inten-
The second overtone of the open pipe has a fre- sity take place twice.
3v Hence, the correct answer is option (a).
quency 3no = Hz
2 Lo 22. Let the original frequency be f, then apparent
The length of the closed pipe Lo = 2 m. frequency
The fundamental frequency of the closed pipe is v − uo
f' = × f where, uo = speed of observer;
v v + us
given by n =
4L us = speed of source; and n = speed of sound wave.
The first overtone of the closed pipe has a frequency
340 − 10
3v 3v 3v ⇒ 1950 = f
3no = = = Hz 340 + 10
4 Lo 4 × 2 8
35
3v 3v ⇒ f= × 1950
or = or 2Lo = 8 or Lo = 4 m 33
2 Lo 8 = 2068 Hz
Hence, the correct answer is option (b). Hence, the correct answer is option (a).