Physics P8 H - Observing waves on water (Ripple tank)

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What is a ripple tank?

A shallow tank of water with a transparent bottom. Waves are generated using a motor attached to a narrow bar. A light placed above the tank will cast shadows of the waves on the floor

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Procedure:

1. To determine the speed of waves on the water:

+ Place 2 markers in the tank & measure their separation.

+ Generate a wave that travels across the tank

+ Measure the time taken for the eve to travel from one marker to the next

+ Calculate using :

speed = distance travelled

Time taken

2. To determine the wavelength of waves on the water:

+ Place 2 markers & measure their seperation

+ Generate a stream of waves

+ Count the number of whole waves between the markers

+ Calculate using:

Wavelength = Separation of markers

number of waves

3. To determine frequency of waves:

DO SAME AS 2

+ Calculate using:

Frequency = Wave speed

Wavelength