Waves

Question1
A pipe open at both ends has a fundamental frequency f in air. The
pipe is now dipped vertically in a water drum to half of its length.
The fundamental frequency of the air column is now equal to:

NEET 2025

Options:

A.
3f

B. 2f

C.
f

D. f

Answer: D

Solution:

Fundamental frequency of open pipe (at both ends) f =

V

2L
… (i)

Now immersed in water open pipe behaves as closed pipe.

 v v
f
′
=
L
= ..... (ii)
4( ) 2L
2

′
f = f

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Question2

The displacement of a travelling wave y = Csin (at −x ) where t is

time, x is distance and λ is the wavelength, all in S.I. units. Then the
frequency of the wave is

[NEET 2024 Re]

Options:

A.
2πλ/a

B.
2πa/λ

C.
λ/a

D.
a/λ

Answer: D

Solution:

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Question3
Two slits in Young's double slit experiment are 1.5 mm apart and the
screen is placed at a distance of 1m from the slits. If the wavelength
of light used is 600 × 10−9 m then the fringe separation is

[NEET 2024 Re]

Options:

A.

4 × 10−5 m

B.

9 × 10−8 m

C.

4 × 10−7 m

D.

4 × 10−4 m
Answer: D

Solution:

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Question4
Interference pattern can be observed due to superposition of the
following waves:
A. y = asin ωt
B. y = asin 2ωt
C. y = asin (ωt − ϕ)
D. y = asin 3ωt
Choose the correct answer from the options given below.

[NEET 2024 Re]

Options:

A.
B and C

B.
B and D

C.
A and C

D.
A and B

Answer: C

Solution:
For interference pattern to be observed the sources must be coherent.

Hence the superposition of waves y = asin (ωt) & y = asin (ωt − ϕ) would result in interference.

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Question5
The ratio of frequencies of fundamental harmonic produced by an
open pipe to that of closed pipe having the same length is

[NEET 2023]
Options:

A.
2:1

B.
1:3

C.
3:1

D.
1:2

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
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Question6
The 4th overtone of a closed organ pipe is same as that
of 3rd overtone of an open pipe. The ratio of the length of the closed
pipe to the length of the open pipe is :

[NEET 2023 mpr]

Options:

A.
8:9

B.
9:7

C.
9:8

D.
7:9

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:

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Question7
If the initial tension on a stretched string is doubled, then the ratio
of the initial and final speeds of a transverse wave along the string is
[NEET-2022]
Options:

A. 1 : 1

B. √2 : 1

C. 1 : √2

D. 1 : 2

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:

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Question8
An organ pipe filled with a gas at 27∘ C resonates at 400 Hz in its
fundamental mode. If it is filled with the same gas at 90∘ C, the
resonance frequency at the same mode will be:
[NEET Re-2022]
©
Options:

A. 512 Hz

B. 420 Hz

C. 440 Hz

D. 484 Hz

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:

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Question9
In a guitar, two strings A and B made of same material are slightly
out of tune and produce beats of frequency 6H z. When tension in B
is slightly decreased, the beat frequency increases to 7H z. If the
frequency of A is 530H z, the original frequency of B will be
[2020]
©

Options:

A. 524H z
B. 536H z

C. 537H z.

D. 523H z.

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
(a) Frequency of string, f = 1
2l √ T
m
Frequency ∝√ Tension
Difference of f A and f B is 6 Hz.
If tension decreases, f B decreases and becomes f B′
Now, difference of f A and f B′ = 7H z (increases) So, f A > f B
f A − f B = 6H z
⇒f A = 530H z ⇒ f B = 524H z (original)

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Question10
A tuning fork with frequency 800H z produces resonance in a
resonance column tube with upper end open and lower end closed
by water surface. Successive resonance are observed at length
9.75cm 31.25cm and 52.75cm. The speed of sound in air is
(OD NEET 2019)
©

Options:

A. 500m ∕ s

B. 156m ∕ s

C. 344m ∕ s

D. 172m ∕ s

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
Frequency (v) = 800H z
As the pipe is closed at one end, so
l 3 − l 2 = l 2 − l 1 = λ = 21.5cm
2
∴ λ = 43.0cm
v
As v = ⇒ v = vλ
λ
800 × 43 = 1
∴v= 344ms−
100

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Question11
A tuning fork is used to produce resonance in a glass tube. The
length of the air column in this tube can be adjusted by a variable
piston. At room temperature of 27∘ C two successive resonances are
produced at 20cm and 73cm of column length. If the frequency of
the tuning fork is 320H z, the velocity of sound in air at 27∘ C is
(NEET 2018)
©

Options:

A. 330ms−1

B. 339ms−1

C. 350ms−1

D. 300ms−1

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
The velocity of sound in air at 27°C is v = 2(v)[L2 − L1]; where v = frequency of tuning fork and
L1, L2 are the successive column length.
∴ v = 2 × 320[73 − 20] × 10−2
= 339.2ms−1 ≈ 339ms−1.

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Question12
The fundamental frequency in an open organ pipe is equal to the
third harmonic of a closed organ pipe. If the length of the closed
organ pipe is 20cm, the length of the open organ pipe is
(NEET 2018)
©

Options:

A. 13.2cm

B. 8cm

C. 12.5cm

D. 16cm

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
3v
For closed organ pipe, third harmonic is
4l
v
For open organ pipe, fundamental frequency is
2l ′
Given, third harmonic for closed organ pipe = fundamental frequency for open organ pipe.
∴ 3v = v ⇒l ′ = 4l = 2l ;
4l 2′ 3×2 3
where l and l ′ are the lengths of closed and open organ pipes respectively.
2 × 20
∴l ′ = = 13.33cm
3

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Question13
The two nearest harmonics of a tube closed at one end and open at
other end are 220 Hz and 260 Hz. What is the fundamental
frequency of the system?
(2017 NEET)
©
Options:

A. 20 Hz

B. 30 Hz

C. 40 Hz

D. 10 Hz

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
Nearest harmonics of an organ pipe closed at one end is differ by twice of its fundamental
frequency.
∴260 − 220 = 2υ, υ = 20 Hz

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Question14
Two cars moving in opposite directions approach each other with
speed of 22ms−1 and 16.5ms−1 respectively. The driver of the first car
blows a horn having a frequency 400 Hz. The frequency heard by
the driver of the second car is
[velocity of sound is 340ms−1 ]
(2017 NEET)
©

Options:

A. 361 Hz

B. 411 Hz

C. 448 Hz

D. 350 Hz

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
The required frequency of sound heard by the driver of second car is given as

υ′ = υ (
v + v0
v − vs )
Where v = velocity od sound
v0 = velocity of obsever, i.e, second car
vs = velocity of source i.e., first clear

( ) (
υ′ = 400 340 + 16.5 = 400 356.5 ≈ 448 Hz
340 − 22 318 )
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Question15
A siren emitting a sound of frequency 800 Hz moves away from an
observer towards a cliff at a speed of 15ms−1. Then, the frequency of
sound that the observer hears in the echo reflected from the cliff is
(Take velocity of sound in air = 330ms−1)
(2016 NEET Phase-I)
©

Options:

A. 838 Hz

B. 885 Hz

C. 765 Hz

D. 800 Hz

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
Here, frequency of sound emitted by siren,
υ0 = 800H z
Speed of source, vs = 15ms−1
Speed of sound in air,v = 330ms−1
Apparent frequency of sound at the cliff = frequency heard by observer = υ
Using Doppler's effect of sound
υ= ( v
v − vs )
υ0 = 330 × 800 ≈ 838Hz
300 − 15
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Question16
An air column, closed at one end and open at the other, resonates
with a tuning fork when the smallest length of the column is 50 cm.
The next larger length of the column resonating with the same
tuning fork is
(2016 NEET Phase-I)
Options:

A. 150 cm

B. 200 cm

C. 66.7 cm

D. 100 cm

Answer: A

Solution:

Solution:

From figure
λ
First harmonic is obtained at l = = 50cm
4
Third harmonic is obtained for resonance,
l ′ = 3λ = 3 × 50 = 150 cm
4

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Question17
A uniform rope of length L and mass m1 hangs vertically from a
rigid support. A block of mass m2 is attached to the free end of the
rope. A transverse pulse of wavelength λ1 is produced at the lower
end of the rope. The wavelength of the pulse when it reaches the top
λ
of the rope is λ[Link] ratio λ2 is
1

(2016 NEET Phase-I)

Options:

A.
√ m2
m1

B.
√ m1 + m2
m1

C.
√ m1
m2

D.
√ m1 + m2
m2

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:

Wavelength of pulse at the lower

end (λ1)∝ velocity (v1) =

T1
μ √
Similarly, λ2 ∝ v2 = √ T2
μ

√ √
λ2 T2 (m1 + m2)g
∴ = =
λ1 T1 m2g

√
m1 + m2
=
m2

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Question18
The second overtone of an open organ pipe has the same frequency
as the first overtone of a closed pipe L metre long. The length of the
open pipe will be
(2016 NEET Phase-II)
©
Options:

A. L

B. 2L

C. L
2
D. 4L

Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
Second overtone of an open organ pipe
v
=Third harmonic = 3 × υ′0 = 3 ×
2L′
First overtone of a closed organ pipe
v
= Third harmonic = 3 × υ0 = 3 ×
4L
According to question,
v =3× v ⇒ =
3υ′0 = 3υ0 ⇒ 3 × L′ 2L
2L′ 4L

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Question19
Three sound waves of equal amplitudes have frequencies
(n − 1), n(n + 1). They superimpose to give beats. The number of
beats produced per second will be
(2016 NEET Phase-II)
©

Options:

A. 1

B. 4

C. 3

D. 2

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:
Beats are defined as the periodic repetition of fluctuating intensities of sound waves. This occurs
when two sound waves of similar frequencies interfere with one another. It is characterised by
waves whose amplitude varies at a regular rate. The beats oscillate to and fro between amplitude
zero and maximum amplitude.
The positive amplitude is called crest and the negative amplitude is called trough. A loud sound is
heard when the waves interfere constructively. This happens when two crests or two troughs
interfere. Similarly, no sound is heard when the waves interfere destructively. This happens when
one crest and one trough interferes.
The beat frequency or beats per second is the difference between frequencies of two notes which
interfere to produce beats.
Here since frequencies (n − 1), n, (n + 1) superimpose to form beats, then the difference in frequency
(n − 1), n is 1. i.e. n − (n − 1) = n − n + 1 = 1
Similarly the difference in frequency n, (n + 1) is 1.i.e. n + 1 − n = 1
Then the total difference between (n − 1), n, (n + 1) is 2.i.e [n − (n − 1)] + [n + 1 − n] = 1 + 1 = 2.
Hence the answer is 2

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Question20
A string is stretched between fixed points separated by 75.0 cm. It is
observed to have resonant frequencies of 420 Hz and 315 Hz. There
are no other resonant frequencies between these two. The lowest
resonant frequency for this string is
(2015) ©

Options:

A. 10.5 Hz

B. 105 Hz

C. 155 Hz

D. 205 Hz

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
For a string fixed at both ends, the resonant frequencies are
nv
υn = where n = 1, 2, 3, . ...
2L
The difference between two consecutive resonant frequencies is
(n + 1)v nv v
Δυn = υn + 1 − υn = − =
2L 2L 2L
which is also the lowest resonant frequency (n = 1).
Thus the lowest resonant frequency for the given string
420H z − 315H z = 105H z

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Question21
4.0 g of a gas occupies 22.4 litres at NTP. The specific heat capacity
of the gas at constant volume is 5.0J K −1mol −1 .If the speed of sound
in this gas at NTP is 952ms−1,then the heat capacity at constant
pressure is
(Take gas constant R = 8.3J K −1mol −1)
(2015)

Options:
1 1
A. 7.0J K − mol −

B. 8.5J K −1mol −1

C. 8.0J K −1mol −1

D. 7.5J K −1mol −1

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
Since 4.0 g of a gas occupies 22.4 litres at NTP, so the molecular mass of the gas is
M = 4.0gmol −1
As the speed of the sound in the gas is
v=
√ γRT
M
Where γ is the ratio of two specific heats, R is the universal gas constant and T is the temperature
of the gas.
M v2
∴γ =
RT
Here,
M = 4.0gml −1 = 4.0 × 10−3kgmol −1,
v = 952ms−1, R = 8.3J K −1mol −1
and T = 273K (at NTP)
(4.0 × 10−3kgmol −1)(952ms−1)2
∴γ = = 1.6
(8.3J K −1mol −1)(273K )
C
By definition,γ = p or Cp = CV
Cv
But γ = 1.6 and Cv = 5.0J K −1mol −1
∴Cp = (1.6) ( 5.0J K 1mol −1 ) = 8.0J K −1mol −1

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Question22
A source of sound S emitting waves of frequency 100 Hz and an
observer O are located at some distance from each other. The source
is moving with a speed of 19.4 m s'1 at an angle of 60° with the
source observer line as shown in the figure. The observer is at rest.
The apparent frequency observed by the observer(velocity of sound
in air 330ms−1), is
(2015)

Options:

A. 106 Hz

B. 97 Hz

C. 100 Hz

D. 103 Hz

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:

Here, Frequency of source,υ0 = 100 Hz

Velocity of source, vs = 19.4ms−1
1
Velocity of sound in air,v = 330ms−
As the velocity of source along the source observer line is vscos60° and the observer is at rest, so
the apparent frequency observed by the observer is
υ = υ0 ( v
v − vs cos 60° )
( )
1
330ms−
= (100H z)
330ms−1 − (19.4ms−1 ) 1
2 ( )
= (100H z) ( 330ms−1
)
330ms−1 − 9.7ms−1

= (100H z) ( ) = 103H z
−1
330ms
−1
320.3ms

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Question23
The fundamental frequency of a closed organ pipe of length 20 cm is
equal to the second overtone of an organ pipe open at both the ends.
The length of organ pipe open at both the ends is
(2015, Cancelled)

Options:

A. 120 cm

B. 140 cm

C. 80 cm

D. 100 cm
Answer: A

Solution:

Solution:
For closed organ pipe, fundamental frequency is given by
υc = v
4l
For open organ pipe, fundamental frequency is given by
v
υo =
2l ′
3v
2nd overtone of open organ pipe υ′ = 3υo; υ′ =
2l ′
According to question,υc = υ′
v = 3v
4l 2l ′
l ′ = 6l
Here,l = 20cm, l ′ = ?
∴l ′ = 6 × 20 = 120cm

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Question24
The number of possible natural oscillations of air column in a pipe
closed at one end of length 85 cm whose frequencies lie below 1250
Hz are
(Velocity of sound = 340ms−1)
(2014)
©

Options:

A. 4

B. 5

C. 7

D. 6

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:
Fundamental frequency of the closed organ pipe is
υ= v
4L
Here v = 340ms−1, L = 85cm = 0.85m
340ms−1
∴υ = = 100 Hz
4 × 0.85m
The natural frequencies of the closed organ pipe will be
υn = (2n − 1)υ = υ, 3υ, 5υ, 7υ, 9υ, 11υ, 13υ, .............
= 100H z, 300H z, 500H z, 700H z, 900H z, 1100H z, 1300H z, ....
and so on.
Thus, the natural frequencies lies below the 1250 Hz is 6.

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Question25
A speeding motorcyclist sees traffic jam ahead him. He slows down
to 36kmhour−1 He finds that traffic has eased and a car moving
ahead of him at 18kmhour−1 is honking at a frequency of 1392 Hz. If
the speed of sound is 343ms−1, the frequency of the honk as heard by
him will be
(2014)
Options:

A. 1332 Hz

B. 1372 Hz

C. 1412 Hz

D. 1454 Hz

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:

Here, speed of motorcyclist, vm = 36kmhour−1 = 10ms−1

Speed of car, vc = 18kmhour−1 = 5ms−1
Frequency of source,υ0 = 1392Hz
Speed of sound, v = 34ms−1
The frequency of the honk heard by the motorcyclist is

υ′ = υ0 (
v + vm
v + vc )
= 1392 (
343 + 10
343 + 5
= 1412Hz )
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Question26
If we study the vibration of a pipe open at both ends, then the
following statement is not true.
(2013 NEET)
©

Options:

A. All harmonics of the fundamental frequency will be generated

B. Pressure change will be maximum at both ends.

C. Open end will be antinode.

D. Odd harmonics of the fundamental frequency will be generated.

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
Pressure change will be minimum at both ends.

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Question27
A wave travelling in the +ve x-direction having displacement along
y-direction as 1 m, wavelength 2πm and frequency of π1 Hz is
represented by
(2013 NEET)
©

Options:
A. y = sin(10πx − 20πt)

B. y = sin(2πx + 2πt)

C. y = sin(x − 2t)

D. y = sin(2πx − 2πt)

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:

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Question28
A source of unknown frequency gives 4 beats/s when sounded with a
source of known frequency 250 Hz. The second harmonic of the
source of unknown frequency gives five beats per second, when
sounded with a source of frequency 513 Hz. The unknown frequency
is
(2013 NEET)
©

Options:

A. 240 Hz

B. 260 Hz

C. 254 Hz

D. 246 Hz

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
Let the unknown frequency be f .
Beat frequency b = | f − f ′ |
For f ′ = 250H z b = 4
∴ | f − 250 | = 4..... . (1)
For f ′ = 513b = 5
∴ | 2f − 513 | = 5..... . (2)
Case 1 : 2f > 513H z and f > 250H z
We get f − 250 = 4 ⟹ f = 254H z
and 2f − 513 = 5 ⟹ f = 259H z
which is not possible.
Case 2: 2f <513H z and f > 250H z
We get f − 250 = 4 ⟹ f = 254H z
And 513 − 2f = 5 ⟹ f = 254H z
Case 3 : 2f < 513H z but f < 250H z
We get 250 − f = 4 ⟹ f = 246H z
And 513 − 2f = 5 ⟹ f = 254H z
Which is not possible.
So the unkown frequency f = 254H z

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Question29
The length of the wire between two ends of a sonometer is 100cm.
What should be the positions of two bridges below the wire so that
the three segments of the wire have their fundamental frequencies in
the ratio 1: 3: 5
(KN NEET 2013)
Options:

A. 1500 cm, 500 cm

23 23

B. 1500 cm, 300 cm

23 23

C. 300 cm, 1500 cm

23 23

D. 1500 cm, 2000 cm

23 23

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:
Let L( = 100cm) be the length of the wire and L1, L2 and L3 are the lengths of the segments as
shown in the figure.
 1
Fundamental frequency, v ∝
L
As the fundamental frequencies are in the ratio of 1: 3: 5 ,
1 1 1
∴L1 : L2 : L3 = : : = 15 : 5 : 3
1 3 5
Let x be the common factor. Then
15x + 5x + 3x = L = 100
100
23x = 100 or x =
23
100 1500
∴L1 = 15 × = cm
23 23
L2 = 5 × 100 = 500 cm; L3 = 3 × 100 = 300 cm
23 23 23 23
1500 2000
∴ The bridges should be placed from A at cm and cm respectively.
23 23

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Question30
Two sources P and Q produce notes of frequency 660 Hz each. A
listener moves from P to Q with a speed of 1ms−1 . If the speed of
sound is 330m ∕ s, then the number of beats heard by the listener per
second will be
(KN NEET 2013)
Options:

A. 4

B. 8

C. 2

D. zero

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:

The situation as shown in the figure.

Here,
Speed of listener,vL = 1ms−1
Speed of sound,v = 330ms−1
Frequency of each source, v = 660H z
Apparent frequency due to P,
v(v − vL)
v′ =
v
Apparent frequency due to Q,
v(v + vL)
v" =
v
Number of beats heard by the listener per second is
v(v + vL) (v − vL)
v" − v′ = −v
v v
2vvL 2 × 660 × 1
= = =4
v 330

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Question31
When a string is divided into three segments of length l 1, l 2 and l 3
the fundamental frequencies of these three segments are υ1, υ2 and
υ3 respectively. The original fundamental frequency (υ) of string is
(2012)
©

Options:

A. √υ = √υ1 + √υ2 + √υ3

B. υ = υ1 + υ2 + υ3

C. 1 = 1 + 1 + 1
υ υ1 υ2 υ3

D. 1 = 1 + 1 + 1
√υ √υ1 √υ2 √υ 3

Answer: C
Solution:
Solution:
Let l be the length of the string. Fundamental frequency is given by
υ= 1
2l √T
μ
1
or υ ∝ (∵ T and μ are constants)
l
k
or υ = where k is a constant
l
k k k k
Here l 1 = , l 2 = , l 3 = and l =
υ1 υ2 υ3 υ
But l = l 1 + l 2 + l 3 ∴1 = 1 + 1 + 1
υ υ1 υ2 υ3

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Question32
Two sources of sound placed close to each other, are emitting
progressive waves given by y1 = 4sin600πt and y2 = 5sin608πt
An observer located near these two sources of sound will hear
(2012)
©

Options:

A. 4 beats per second with intensity ratio 25 : 16 between waxing and waning.

B. 8 beats per second with intensity ratio 25 : 16 between waxing and waning.

C. 8 beats per second with intensity ratio 81 :1 between waxing and waning

D. 4 beats per second with intensity ratio 81 :1 between waxing and waning.

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:
Given y1 = 4sin600πt, y2 = 5sin608πt
∴ω1 = 600π or 2πυ1 = 600π or υ1 = 300
A1 = 4
and ω2 = 680π or 2πυ2 = 608π or υ2 = 304
A2 = 5
Number of beats heard per second
= υ2 − υ1 = 304 − 300 = 4
I max (A1 + A2)2 (4 + 5)2 81
= = =
I min (A − A )2 (4 − 5)2 1
1 2

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Question33
The equation of a simple harmonic wave is given by
y = 3sin π2 (50t − x),
where x and y are in metres and t is in seconds. The ratio of
maximum particle velocity to the wave velocity is
(2012 Mains)
©

Options:

A. 2π

B. 3 π
2

C. 3π

D. 2 π
3

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
The given wave equation is
π
y = 3 sin (50t − x)
2

( )
y = 3 sin 25πt − π x ....(i)
2
The standard wave equation is
y = A sin(ωt − kx) ......(ii)
Comparing(i) and (ii), we get
π
ω = 25π, k =
2
ω 25π −1
Wave velocity, v = = = 50ms
k (π ∕ 2)

(
Particle velocity, vp = d y = d 3 sin 25πt − π
dt dt 2 ( ))
 (
= 75π cos 25πt − π
2 )
Maximum particle velocity, (vp)max = 75πm s−1
(v ) 75π 3
∴ p max = = π
v 50 2

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Question34
A train moving at a speed of 220ms−1 towards a stationary object,
emits a sound of frequency 1000 Hz. Some of the sound reaching the
object gets reflected back to the train as echo. The frequency of the
echo as detected by the driver of the train is (Speed of sound in air is
330ms−1)
(2012 Mains)
©

Options:

A. 3500 Hz

B. 4000 Hz

C. 5000 Hz

D. 3000 Hz

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
Here,
Speed of the train,vT = 220ms−1
Speed of sound in air,v = 330ms−1
The frequency of the echo detected by the driver of the train is

υ′ = υ (
v + vT
v − vT ) (
= 1000 330 + 220 − 220
330 )
550
= 1000 × = 5000Hz
110

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Question35
Two waves are represented by the equations
y1 = asin(ωt + kx + 0.57)m and
y2 = acos(ωt + kx)m, where x is in meter and 7 in sec. The phase
difference between them is
(2011)
©

Options:

A. 1.0 radian

B. 1.25 radian

C. 1.57 radian

D. 0.57 radian

Answer: A

Solution:

Solution:
y1 = asin(ωt + kx + 0.57) ∴ phase ϕ1 = ωt + kx + 0.57

(
y2 = acos(ωt + kx) = asin wt + kx + π
2 )
π
∴ phase ϕ2 = ωt + kx +
2
Phase difference Δϕ = ϕ2 − ϕ1

(
= ωt + kx +
π
2 ) π
− (ωt + kx + 0.57) = − 0.57
2
= (1.57 − 0.57) radian = 1 radian

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question36
Sound waves travel at 350 m/s through a warm air and at 3500 m/s
through brass. The wavelength of a 700 Hz acoustic wave as it enters
brass from warm air
(2011)
 ©

Options:

A. decrease by a factor 10

B. increase by a factor 20

C. increase by a factor 10

D. decrease by a factor 20

Answer: C

Solution:

Solution:
m m
Here, vair = 350 , vbrass = 3500
s s
When a sound wave travels from one medium to another medium its frequency remains the
v
same,∴ Frequency,υ =
λ
Since υ remains the same in both the medium
v v
⇒ air = brass
λair λbrass
v 3500 10λ
λbrass = λair × brass = λair × = air
vair 350

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question37
Two identical piano wires, kept under the same tension T have a
fundamental frequency of 600 Hz. The fractional increase in the
tension of one of the wires which will lead to occurrence of 6 beats/s
when both the wires oscillate together would be
(2011 Mains)
©

Options:

A. 0.01

B. 0.02

C. 0.03
D. 0.04

Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
As υ = 1
2L μ
T
√ ∴
Δυ 1 ΔT
υ
=
2 T
ΔT = 2 Δυ = 2 × 6 =
0.02
T υ 600

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question38
A transverse wave is represented by y = Asin(ωt − kx).For what
value of the wavelength is the wave velocity equal to the maximum
particle velocity?
(2010)
©

Options:

A. πA
2

B. πA

C. 2πA

D. A

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
The given wave equation is y = Asin(ωt − kx)
ω
Wave velocity,v = ........(i)
k
dy
Particle velocity,vp = = Aωcos(ωt − kx)
dt
Maximum particle velocity,(vp)max = Aω......(ii)
According to the given question
v = (vp)max
ω
= Aω (Using (i) and (ii))
k
1 = A or λ = A
k 2π (
∵k = 2π
λ )
λ = 2πA

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question39
A tuning fork of frequency 512 Hz makes 4 beats per second with
the vibrating string of a piano. The beat frequency decreases to 2
beats per sec when the tension in the piano string is slightly
increased. The frequency of the piano string before increasing the
tension was
(2010)
Options:

A. 510 Hz

B. 514 Hz

C. 516 Hz

D. 508 Hz

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:
Let the frequencies of tuning fork and piano string be υ1 and υ2 respectively.
∴υ2 = υ1 ± 4 = 512H z ± 4 = 516H z or 508H z

Increase in the tension of a piano string increases its frequency.

If υ2 = 516H z, further increase in υ2, resulted in an increase in the beat frequency. But this is not
given in the question.
If υ2 = 508H z, further increase in υ2 resulted in decrease in the beat frequency. This is given in the
question. When the beat frequency decreases to 2 beats per second. Therefore, the frequency of
the piano string before increasing the tension was 508H z.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question40
Each of the two strings of length 51.6 cm and 49.1 cm are tensioned
separately by 20 N force. Mass per unit length of both the strings is
same and equal to 1 g/m. When both the strings vibrate
simultaneously the number of beats is
(2009)
©

Options:

A. 7

B. 8

C. 3

D. 5

Answer: A

Solution:

Solution:
l 1 = 0.516m, l 2 = 0.491m, T = 20N
Mass per unit length, μ = 0.001kg/m
Frequency,υ =
1
2l √T
μ

υ1 =
1
2 × 0.516 √ 0.001
20
,υ =2
1
√ 20
2 × 0.491 0.001

∴ Number of beats = υ1 − υ2 = 7

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question41
The driver of a car travelling with speed 30 m/sec towards a hill
sounds a horn of frequency 600 Hz. If the velocity of sound in air is
330 m/s, the frequency of reflected sound as heard by driver is
(2009)
©

Options:

A. 555.5 Hz

B. 720 Hz

C. 500 Hz

D. 550 Hz

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
Car is the source and the hill is observer.
Frequency heard at the hill, υ1
υ × v 600 × 330
∴υ1 = =
v−V 330 − 30
Now for reflection, the hill is the source and the driver the observer.
∴υ2 = υ1 × (330 + 30)
330
600 × 330 360
⇒υ2 = × ⇒ υ2 = 720Hz
330 330

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question42
A wave in a string has an amplitude of 2 cm. The wave travels in the
+ve direction of x axis with a speed of 128 m/sec and it is noted that
5 complete waves fit in 4 m length of the string. The equation
describing the wave is
(2009)
©

Options:

A. y = (0.02) m sin (15.7x - 2010t)

B. y = (0.02) m sin (15.7x +2010t)

C. y = (0.02) m sin (7.85x - 1005t)

D. y = (0.02) m sin (7.85x + 1005t)

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
Amplitude = 2 cm = 0.02 m, v = 128 m/s
4 128
λ = = 0.8m; υ = = 160Hz
5 0.8
2π = 2π =
ω = 2πυ = 2π × 160 = 1005; k = 7.85
λ 0.8

∴y = 0.02sin(7.85x − 1005t)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question43
A point performs simple harmonic oscillation of period T and the
equation of motion is given by x = asin ωt + π6 .After the elapse of ( )
what fraction of the time period thevelocity of the point will be equal
to half of its maximum velocity?
(2008)
©

Options:

A. T
3

B. T
12

C. T
8

D. T
6

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:

(
x = a sin ωt + π
6 )
dx
dt (
= aω cos ωt +
π
6 )
Max. velocity = aω
∴ aω2 = aω cos ωt + ( π
6 )
(
∴ cos ωt +
π
6
= )
1
2
2π 2π π
⇒ 60° or radian = .t+
6 T 6
⇒ 2π . t = 2π − π = + π
T 6 6 6
∴ = +π × T = + T
6 2π 12 | |
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question44
Two periodic waves of intensities I 1 and I 2 pass through a region at
the same time in the same direction. The sum of the maximum and
minimum intensities is
(2008)
©

Options:

A. (√I 1 − √I 2 )2

B. 2(I 1 + I 2)

C. I 1 + I 2

2
D. (√I 1 + √I 2 )

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
Other factors such as ω and v remaining the same, I = A2 × constant K , or A =
√ KI
On superposition
Amax = A1 + A2 and Amin = A1 − A2
∴Amax2 = A12 + A22 + 2A1A2
I max I 1 I 2 2√I 1I 2
⇒ = + +
K K K K
2 2 2
Amin = A1 + A2 − 2A1A2
I min I 1 I 2 2√I 1I 2
⇒ = + −
K K K K
∴I max + I min = 2I 1 + 2I 2 = 2(I 1 + I 2)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question45
The wave described by y = 0.25 sin(10πx − 2πt), where x and y are in
meters and 7 in seconds, is a wave travelling along the
(2008)
©

Options:

A. +ve x direction with frequency 1 Hz and wavelength λ = 0.2m

B. -ve x direction with amplitude 0.25 m and wavelength λ = 0.2m

C. -ve x direction with frequency 1 Hz.

D. +ve x direction with frequency 7t Hz and wavelength λ = 0.2m

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
y = 0.25sin(10πx − 2πt)
ymax = 0.25
2π
k= = 10π ⇒ λ = 0.2m
λ
ω = 2πv = 2π ⇒ v = 1H z
The sign is negative inside the bracket. Therefore this wave travels in the positive x-direction.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question46
Two vibrating tuning forks produce waves given by y1 = 4 sin 500 π t
and y2 = 2 sin 506 π tNumber of beats produced per minute is
(2006)
©

Options:

A. 360

B. 180

C. 60

D. 3

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
Y 1 = 4 sin 500 π t, Y 2 = 2 sin 506 π t
ω1 = 500π = 2πv1 ⇒v1 = 250H z
ω2 = 506π = 2πv2 ⇒ v2 = 253H z
v = v2 − v1 = 253 − 250 = 3 beats /s
Number of beats per minute = 3 × 60 = 180.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question47
Two sound waves with wavelengths 5.0m and 5.5m respectively, each
propagate in a gas with velocity 330m ∕ s. We expect the following
number of beats per second.
(2006)
©

Options:

A. 6

B. 12
C. 0

D. 1 .

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
velocity
Frequency =
wavelength
v
∴ v1 = = 330 = 66H z
λ1 5
v 330 =
and v2 = = 60H z
λ2 5.5
Number of beats per second = v1 − v2
= 66 − 60 = 6

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question48
The time of reverberation of a room A is one second. What will be
the time (in seconds) of reverberation of a room, having all the
dimensions double of those of room A ?
(2006)
©

Options:

A. 1

B. 2

C. 4

D. 1 .
2

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
 0.61V
Reverberation time, T =
aS
where V is the volume of room in cubic metres, a is the average absorption coefficient of the room,
S is the total surface area of room in square metres.

or, T ∝
V
S
T
or, 1 =
T2 ( )( ) ( )( )
V1
V2
S2
S1
=
V
8V
4S
S
=
1
2
or, T 2 = 2T 1 = 2 × 1 = 2 sec. (∵T 1 = 1 sec)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question49
A transverse wave propagating along x -axis is represented by

)
y(x, t) = 8.0 sin( 0.5πx−4πt − π4 where x is in metres and t is in
seconds. The speed of the wave is
(2006)
©

Options:

A. 8m ∕ s

B. 4πm ∕ s

C. 0.5πm ∕ s

D. π m ∕ s
4

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:

(
y(x, t) = 8.0 sin 0.5πx − 4πt − π
4 )
Compare with a standard wave equation,
y = a sin ( 2πx − 2πt + ϕ
λ T )
2π 2π
we get = 0.5π or, λ = = 4m
λ 0.5π
2π = 4π 2π = 1 sec.
or, T =
T 4π 2
1
v = = 2H z
T
Wave velocity, v = λv = 4 × 2 = 8m ∕ sec.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question50
Which one of the following statements is true?
(2006)
©

Options:

A. both light and sound waves can travel in vacuum

B. both light and sound waves in air are transverse

C. the sound waves in air are longitudinal while the light waves are transverse

D. both light and sound waves in air are longitudinal.

Answer: C

Solution:

Solution:
Light waves are electromagnetic waves. Light waves are transverse in nature and do not require a
medium to travel, hence they can travel in vacuum. Sound waves are longitudinal waves and
require a medium to travel. They do not travel in vacuum.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question51
A point source emits sound equally in all directions in a non-
absorbing medium. Two points P and Q are at distances of 2m and
3m respectively from the source. The ratio of the intensities of the
waves at P andQ is
(2005)
©

Options:

A. 3: 2

B. 2: 3
C. 9: 4

D. 4: 9 .

Answer: C

Solution:

Solution:
d 1 = 2m, d 2 = 3m
1
Intensity ∝
( distance)2
I 1 ∝ 12 and I 2 ∝ 12
2 3
I
∴ 1=9
I2 4

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question52
The phase difference between two waves, represented by
y1 = 10−6 sin 100t +[ ( ) + 0.5 ] mx
50

y2 = 10−6 cos [ 100t + ( ) ] m x

50
where x is expressed in metres and t is expressed in seconds, is
approximately.
(2004)
©

Options:

A. 1.07 radians

B. 2.07 radians

C. 0.5 radians

D. 1.5 radians

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:

[ ( 50x ) + 0.5 ]
y1 = 10−6 sin 100t +

y = 10 cos [ 100t + ( ) ] [ using cos x = sin ( x + ) ]

−6 x π
2 50 2
= 10 sin [ 100t + ( x ) + π ]
−6
50 2
= 10 sin [ 100t + ( x ) + 1.57 ]
−6
50

(
The phase difference = 1.57 − 0.5 = 1.07 radians [or using sin x = cos π − x , we get the same
2 )
result.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question53
A car is moving towards a high cliff. The driver sounds a horn of
frequency f . The reflected sound heard by the driver has frequency
2f . If v is the velocity of sound, then the velocity of the car, in the
same velocity units, will be
(2004)
©

Options:

A. v
√2

B. v
3

C. v
4

D. v
2

Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
1st the car is the source and at the cliff, one observes f ′.
∴f ′ = v f
v − vs
2nd cliff is now source. It emits frequency f ′ and the observer is now the driver who observes f ".
∴f " = [ v +vv ] f ′ or 2f = [ vv +− vv ] f
o o

s
⇒ 2v − 2vo = v + vo [ as vs = vo ]
⇒vo = v
3

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question54
An observer moves towards a stationary source of sound with a
speed 15 th of the speed of sound. The wavelength and frequency of
the source emitted are lambda and f respectively. The apparent
frequency and wavelength recorded by the observer are respectively
(2003)
©

Options:

A. 1.2f , 1.2λ

B. 1.2f , λ

C. f , 1.2λ

D. 0.8f , 0.8λ

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
Apparent frequency,

f′=
v + vo
f =
v+
1
v ( )
5 f =
1.2f
v v
Wavelength does not change by motion of observer.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question55
A whistle revolves in a circle with angular speed ω = 20 rad ∕ s using
a string of length 50cm. If the frequency of sound from the whistle is
385H z, then what is the minimum frequency heard by an observer
which is far away from the centre (velocity of sound = 340m ∕ s )
(2002)
Options:

A. 385H z

B. 374H z

C. 394H z

D. 333H z.

Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
The whistle is revolving in a circle of radius 50cm. So the source (whistle) is moving and the
observer is fixed.

The minimum frequency will be heard by the observer when the linear velocity of the whistle
(source) will be in a direction as shown in the figure, i.e. when the source is receding.
The apparent frequency heard by the observer is then given by v′ = v
v
V +v ( )
where V and v are the velocities of sound and source respectively and v is the actual frequency.
Now, v = rω = 0.5 × 20 = 10m ∕ s
V = 340m ∕ s, v = 385H z
340
∴v′ = 385 × = 374H z
340 + 10

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question56
If a wave travelling in positive x-direction with A = 0.2m ∕ s, velocity
= 360m ∕ s and λ = 60m, then correct expression for the wave is:
(2002)
 ©

Options:

[ (
A. y = 0.2 sin 2π 6t + x
60 )]
[ (
B. y = 0.2 sin π 6t + x
60 )]
[ (
C. y = 0.2 sin 2π 6t − x
60 )]
[ (
D. y = 0.2 sin π 6t − x
60 )]
Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
General equation for a plane progressive wave travelling along positive x-direction is given b
y = A sin(wt − kx)

[ (
= A sin 2π v −
x
λ )]
... (i)
Here, it is given
v = 360m ∕ s, λ = 60m
v 360
We know that, frequency v = = = 6H z.
λ 60
Substituting A = 0.2m ∕ s, v = 6H z
λ = 60m in Eq. (i), we get

[ (
y = 0.2 sin 2π 6t − x
60 )]
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question57
x
The equation of a wave is represented by y = 10 sin 100t − 10 m,
−4
( )
then the velocityof wave will be
(2001)
©

Options:
A. 100m ∕ s

B. 4m ∕ s

C. 1000m ∕ s

D. 10m ∕ s

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
Comparing the given equation with general equation, y = a sin 2 π ( Tt − xλ ) , we get
2π
T = and λ = 20π
100
∴v = vλ = 100 × 20π = 1000m ∕ s
2π

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question58
Two waves having equation
x1 = a sin(ωt − kx + ϕ1)
x2 = a sin(ωt − kx + ϕ2)
If in the resultant wave the frequency and amplitude remain equal
to amplitude of superimposing waves, the phase difference between
them is
(2001)
©

Options:

A. π
6

B. 2π
3

C. π
4

D. π
3
Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
Resultant amplitude = 2a(1 + cos ϕ) = a
∴(1 + cos ϕ) = 1 ; cos ϕ = − 1 ; ϕ = 2π
2 2 3

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question59
If the tension and diameter of a sonometer wire of fundamental
frequency n is doubled and density is halved then its fundamental
frequency will become
(2001)
©

Options:

A. n
4

B. √2 n

C. n

D. n
√2

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
n= 1
2l √ T
πr2ρ
ρ
ρ1′ = ; T ′ = 2T and D′ = 2D or r′ = 2r
2

√
1 2T
n′ =
2l ρ
π(2r)2
2

After solving, n′ = 1
2l √ πrT ρ = n.
2
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question60
The equations of two waves acting in perpendicular directions are
given as
x = a cos(ωt + δ) and y = a cos(ωt + α)
where δ = α + π2 , the resultant wave represents
(2000)
©

Options:

A. a parabola

B. a circle

C. an ellipse

D. a straight line

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
Given : x = a cos(ωt + δ)
and y = a cos(ωt + α) .......(i)
π
where, δ = α +
2

(
∴ x = a cos ωt + α + π
2 )
= −a sin(ωt + α) ......(ii)
Given the two waves are acting in perpendicular direction with the same frequency and phase
π
difference .
2
From equations (i) and (ii),
x2 + y2 = a2
which represents the equation of a circle.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question61
A string is cut into three parts, having fundamental frequencies
n1, n2, n3 respectively. Then original fundamental frequency n
related by the expression as
(2000)
©

Options:

A. 1 = 1 + 1 + 1
n n1 n2 n3

B. n = n1 × n2 × n3

C. n = n1 + n2 + n3

n1 + n2 + n3
D. n = 3

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:

( )
As n ∝ 1 and l = l 1 + l 2 + l 3
l
∴ = + 1 + 1
1 1
n n1 n2 n3

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question62
Two stationary sources each emitting waves of wavelength λ, an
observer moves from one source to another with velocity u. Then
number of beats heard by him
(2000)
©

Options:

A. 2u
λ
B. u
λ

C. √uλ

D. u
2λ

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
f ′ = v − uf ; f " = v + uf
v v
2u
Number of beats = f " − f ′ =
λ

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question63
Two waves of lengths 50cm and 51cm produced 12 beats per sec. The
velocity of sound is
(1999)
©

Options:

A. 340m ∕ s

B. 331m ∕ s

C. 306m ∕ s

D. 360m ∕ s

Answer: C

Solution:

Solution:
Number of beats produced per second = v1 − v2 = v − v
λ1 λ2

[ ]
12 = v 1 − 1 or 12 = v × 1
50 51 50 × 51
or, v = 12 × 50 × 51cm ∕ s = 306m ∕ s.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question64
A transverse wave is represented by the equation
y = y0 sin 2πλ (vt − x)
For what value of λ, is the maximum particle velocity equal to two
times the wave velocity?
(1998)
©

Options:

πy
A. λ = 2 0

πy
B. λ = 3 0

C. λ = 2πy0

D. λ = πy0

Answer: D

Solution:

Solution:
2π −
The given equation of wave is y = y0 sin (vt x)
λ
d y = y cos 2π (vt − x) 2πv
Particle velocity = 0
dt λ λ

( )
dy
d t max
= y0 2π v
λ
2π
∴ y0 v = 2v or λ = πy0
λ

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question65
A vehicle, with a horn of frequency n is moving with a velocity of
30m ∕ s in a direction perpendicular to the straight line joining the
observer and the vehicle. The observer perceives the sound to have a
frequency n + n1. Then (if the sound velocity in air is 300m ∕ s )
(1998)
©

Options:

A. n1 = 0.1n

B. n1 = 0

C. n1 = 10n

D. n1 = −0.1n

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
n′ = n + n1 = nv
v − vs cos θ
nv
= [∵cos 90° = 0]
v
n′ = n ∴ n1 = 0

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question66
A standing wave having 3 nodes and 2 antinodes is formed between
two atoms having a distance 1.21Å between them. The wavelength of
the standing wave is
(1998)
Options:

A. 6.05Å

B. 2.42Å

C. 1.21Å
D. 3.63 Å

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
λ
Distance between a node and adjoining antinode =
4

λ=
From figure, distance between two atoms = 4 × 1.21Å or, λ = 1.21Å
4

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question67
In a sinusoidal wave, the time required for a particular point to
move from maximum displacement to zero displacement is 0.170s .
The frequency of wave is
(1998)
©

Options:

A. 0.73H z

B. 0.36H z

C. 1.47H z

D. 2.94 Hz

Answer: C

Solution:

Solution:
Displacement, Y max = a, Y min = 0
T
Time taken =
4
∴ T = 0.170 ∴ T = 0.68
4
1
The frequency of wave = = 1.47H z
T

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question68
Standing waves are produced in 10m long stretched string. If the
string vibrates in 5 segments and wave velocity is 20m ∕ s, the
frequency is
(1997)
©

Options:

A. 5H z

B. 10H z

C. 2H z

D. 4H z

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
The frequency of standing wave,
n 5 × 20
v= v= = 5H z.
2l 2 × 10

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question69
A cylindrical tube, open at both ends has fundamental frequency f
in air. The tube is dipped vertically in water, so that half of it is in
water. The fundamental frequency of air column is now
(1997)
©
Options:

A. f
2

B. 3f
4

C. 2f

D. f

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:
v
For the cylindrical tube open at both ends, f = .
2l
l
When half of the tube is in water, it behaves asa closed pipe of length .
2
v v
∴ f′= = ∴ f′=f
4 l
2( ) 2l

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question70
The equation of a sound wave is
y = 0.0015 sin(62.4x + 316t)
The wavelength of this wave is
(1996)
©

Options:

A. 0.3 unit

B. 0.2 unit

C. 0.1 unit

D. cannot be calculated.

Answer: C
Solution:
Solution:
Sound wave equation is
y = 0.0015 sin(62.4x + 316t)
Comparing it with the general equation of motion

[ ]
y = A sin 2 π x + t , we get 2π = 62.4
λ T λ
2π
or λ = = 0.1 unit.
62.4

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question71
Two sound waves having a phase difference of 60° have path
difference of
(1996)
©

Options:

A. λ
6

B. λ
3

C. 2λ

D. λ
2

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
π radPhase π 2π
Phase difference θ = 60° = difference (θ) = = × Path difference
3 3 λ
π λ λ
Therefore Path difference = × = .
3 2π 6

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Question72
The length of a sonometer wire AB is 110cm. Where should the two
bridges be placed from A to divide the wire in 3 segments whose
fundamental frequencies are in the ratio of 1 : 2 : 3?
(1995)
©

Options:

A. 60cm and 90cm

B. 30cm and 60cm

C. 30cm and 90cm

D. 40cm and 80cm.

Answer: A

Solution:

Solution:
Length of sonometer wire (l ) = 110cm and ratio of frequencies = 1 : 2 : 3
1 1
Frequency (v) ∝ or l ∝
l v
1 1 1
Therefore AC : CD : DB = : : = 6 : 3 : 2
1 2 3
110 = 60cm and CD = 3 × 110 = 30cm
Therefore AC = 6 ×
11 11
Thus AD = 60 + 30 = 90cm

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Question73
A hospital uses an ultrasonic scanner to locate tumours in a tissue.
The operating frequency of the scanner is 4.2M H z. The speed of
sound in a tissue is 1.7km ∕ s. The wavelength of sound in the tissue is
close to
(1995)
©

Options:

A. 4 × 10−3m
B. 8 × 10−3m

C. 4 × 10−4m

D. 8 × 10−4m.

Answer: C

Solution:

Solution:
Frequency (υ) = 4.2M H z
= 4.2 × 106H z and
speed of sound (v) = 1.7km ∕ s = 1.7 × 103m ∕ s
v
Wavelength of sound in tissue (λ) =
υ
3
1.7 × 10
= 6
= 4 × 10−4m
4.2 × 10

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Question74
A source of sound gives 5 beats per second, when sounded with
another source of frequency 100 second −1. The second harmonic of
the source, together with a source of frequency 205sec−1 gives 5 beats
per second. What is the frequency of the source?
(1995)
©

Options:

A. 105 second −1

B. 205 second −1

C. 95 second −1

D. 100 second −1

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
5 beats/sec = 100 and frequency of second source with 5 beats /sec = 205. The frequency of the
first source = 100 ± 5 = 105 or 95H z.
Therefore frequency of second harmonic source = 210H z or 190H z.
As the second harmonic gives 5 beats/second with the sound of frequency 205H z, therefore
frequency of second harmonic source should be 210H z. The frequency of source = 105H z

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Question75
A star, which is emitting radiation at a wavelength of 5000Å, is
approaching the earth with a velocity of 1.5 × 104m ∕ s. The change in
wavelength of the radiation as received on the earth is
(1995)
©

Options:

A. 25Å

B. 100Å

C. zero

D. 2.5Å

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
Wavelength (λ) = 5000Å and velocity (v) = 1.5 × 104m ∕ s
Wavelength of the approaching star,
c−v
(λ′) = = λ
c
λ′ v v λ′ = λ − λ′ = Δλ
or = 1 − or, = 1 −
λ c c λ λ λ
v 1.5 × 106
Therefore Δλ = λ × = 5000Å × = 25Å
c 3 × 108
(where Δλ is the change in the wavelength)

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Question76
Which one of the following represents a wave?
(1994)
©

Options:

A. y = A sin(ωt − kx)

B. y = A cos(at − bx + c)

C. y = A sin k x

D. y = A sin ω t.

Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
(a) represents a harmonic progressive wave in the standard form whereas(b) also represents a
harmonic progressive wave, both travelling in the positive x - direction. In (b), a is the angular
velocity, ω and b is k; c is the initial phase.(d) represents only S.H.M.

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Question77
A wave of frequency 100H z travels along a string towards its fixed
end. When this wave travels back, after reflection, a node is formed
at a distance of 10cm from the fixed end. The speed of the wave
(incident and reflected) is
(1994)
©

Options:

A. 20m ∕ s

B. 40m ∕ s

C. 5m ∕ s

D. 10m ∕ s
Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
Frequency (υ) = 100H z and distance from fixed end = 10cm = 0.1m. When a stationary wave is
produced, the fixed end behaves as a node.
Thus wavelength (λ) = 2 × 0.1 = 0.2m.
Therefore velocity v = vλ = 100 × 0.2 = 20m ∕ s

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Question78
A stationary wave is represented by y = A sin(100t) cos(0.01x), where
y and Aare in millimetres, t is in seconds and x is in metres. The
velocity of the wave is
(1994)
©

Options:

A. 104m ∕ s

B. not derivable

C. 1m ∕ s

D. 102m ∕ s

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
y = A sin(100t) cos(0.01x)
Comparing it with standard equation

( ) ( )
y = A sin 2π t cos 2π x ,
T λ
π
we get T = and λ = 200π
50
Therefore velocity, (v) = λ = 200π = 200 × 50
T π ∕ 50
4
= 10000 = 10 m ∕ s

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Question79
A source of frequencyv gives 5 beats/second when sounded with a
source of frequency 200H z. The second harmonic of frequency 2υ of
source gives 10 beats/second when sounded with a source of
frequency 420H z. The value of υ is
(1994)
©

Options:

A. 205H z

B. 195H z

C. 200H z

D. 210H z.

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
First case: Frequency = υ ;
No. of beats/sec. = 5 and
frequency (sounded with) = 200H z
. Second case: Frequency = 2υ;
No. of beats/sec = 10 and frequency (sounded with ) = 420H z.
In the first case, frequency (υ) = 200 ± 5 = 205 or 195H z. And in the second case, frequency
(2υ) = 420 ± 10
or υ = 210 ± 5 = 205 or 215. So common value of υ in both the cases is 205H z..

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Question80
Wave has simple harmonic motion whose period is 4 seconds while
another wave which also possesses simple harmonic motion has its
period 3 second. If both are combined, then the resultant wave will
have the period equal to
(1993)
©
Options:

A. 4s

B. 5s

C. 12s

D. 3s

Answer: C

Solution:

Solution:
1−1= 1
Beats are produced. Frequency of beats will be
3 4 12
Hence time period = 12s.

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Question81
A stretched string resonates with tuning fork frequency 512H z when
length of the string is 0.5m. The length of the string required to
vibrate resonantly with a tuning fork of frequency 256H z would be
(1993)
©

Options:

A. 0.25m

B. 0.5m

C. 1m

D. 2m

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
 1
f =
2l µ[ ]
1 T 2
when f is halved, the length is doubled.
∴ Length is 1m

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Question82
The temperature at which the speed of sound becomes double as was
at 27°C is
(1993)
©

Options:

A. 273°C

B. 0°C

C. 927°C

D. 1027°C

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
Velocity of sound, v ∝ √T
v √273 + 27
∴ = or T = 1200K = 927°C
2v √T

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Question83
For production of beats the two sources must have
(1992)
©

Options:

A. different frequencies and same amplitude

B. different frequencies

C. different frequencies, same amplitude and same phase

D. different frequencies and same phase

Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
For production of beats different frequencies are essential. The different amplitudes effect the
minimum and maximum amplitude of the beats. If frequencies are different, phases will be different.

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Question84
The frequency of sinusodial wave
y = 0.40 cos[2000t + 0.80] would be
(1992)
©

Options:

A. 1000πH z

B. 2000H z

C. 20H z

D. 1000 H z
π

Answer: D

Solution:

Solution:
Compare with the equation,
y = a cos(2πυt + ϕ)
This give 2πv = 2000
1000 H z
υ=
π

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Question85
With the propagation of a longitudinal wave through a material
medium, the quantities transmitted in the propagation direction are
(1992)
©

Options:

A. energy, momentum and mass

B. energy

C. energy and mass

D. energy and linear momentum

Answer: B

Solution:
Solution:
With the propagation of a longitudinal wave, energy alone is propagated.

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Question86
Two trains move towards each other with the same speed. The speed
of sound is 340m ∕ s. If the height of the tone of the whistle of one of
them heard on the other changes to 98 times, then the speed of each
train should be
(1991)
©

Options:

A. 20m ∕ s

B. 2m ∕ s

C. 200m ∕ s
D. 2000m ∕ s

Answer: A

Solution:
Solution:
9
Here υ′ = υ
8
Source and observer are moving in opposite direction, apparent frequency
(v + u)
υ′ = υ ×
(v − u)
9 υ = υ × 340 + u
8 340 − u
⇒ 9 × 340 − 9u = 8 × 340 + 8u
340 =
⇒ 17u = 340 × 1 ⇒u = 20m ∕ s
17

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Question87
A closed organ pipe (closed at one end) is excited to support the
third overtone. It is found that air in the pipe has
(1991)
Options:

A. three nodes and three antinodes

B. three nodes and four antinodes

C. four nodes and three antinodes

D. four nodes and four antinodes

Answer: D

Solution:
Solution:
Third overtone has a frequency 4n, 4th harmonic = three full loops + one half loop, which would
make four nodes and four antinodes.
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Question88
Velocity of sound waves in air is 330m ∕ s For a particular sound
wave in air, a path difference of 40cm is equivalent to phase
difference of 1.6π. The frequency of this wave is
(1990)
©

Options:

A. 165H z

B. 150H z

C. 660H z

D. 330H z

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
λ Δϕ
From Δx =
2π
Δx 2π(0.4)
λ = 2π = = 0.5m
Δϕ 1.6π
v 330
υ= = = 660H z
λ 0.5

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Question89
A 5.5 metre length of string has a mass of 0.035kg. If the tension in
the string in 77N , the speed of a wave on the string is
(1989)
©

Options:
A. 110ms−1

B. 165ms−1

C. 77ms−1

D. 102ms−1

Answer: A

Solution:

Solution:
0.035
µ= kg ∕ m, T = 77N
5.5
where µ is mass per unit length.
v=
√ T
µ
= √
77 × 5.5
0.035
= 110m ∕ s

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Question90
If the amplitude of sound is doubled and the frequency reduced to
one fourth, the intensity of sound at the same point will be
(1989)
©

Options:

A. increasing by a factor of 2

B. decreasing by a factor of 2

C. decreasing by a factor of 4

D. unchanged

Answer: C

Solution:
Solution:
Intensity ∝(amplitude)2 and also intensity ∝(frequency)2.
Therefore original I ∝ A2ω2
 2
I ′ ∝ 4A2 ω i . e., 1 I
16 4

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Question91
The velocity of sound in any gas depends upon
(1988)
©

Options:

A. wavelength of sound only

B. density and elasticity of gas

C. intensity of sound waves only

D. amplitude and frequency of sound

Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
Velocity of sound in any gas depends upon density and elasticity of gas.
v= √ γP
ρ
or
B
ρ√
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Question92

Equation of progressive wave is given by y = 4 sin π [ ( t

5 ) ]
− x9 + π6
where y, x are in cm and t is in seconds. Then which of the following
is correct?
(1988)
©

Options:
A. v = 5cm

B. λ = 18cm

C. a = 0.04cm

D. f = 50H z

Answer: B

Solution:

Solution:
The standard equation of a progressivewave is

[ (
y = a sin 2π t − x + ϕ
T λ ) ]
The given equation can be written as

[ (
y = 4 sin 2π
t − x +π
10 18 6 ) ]
∴ a = 4cm, T = 10s
λ = 18cm and ϕ = π
6

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