The diagram given illustrates a wave form. Determine the speed of the wave
Attached Figure / Diagram
A
5.4 ms-1
B
8.4 ms-1
C
9.6 ms-1
D
10.0 ms-1
Verified Correct Answer: D.
Physical Principles & Numerical Solution
The diagram illustrates three complete cycles over a distance of 9 m. Therefore, the wavelength \lambda is 9 m / 3 = 3 m.
The time t = 0.6 s corresponds to two periods (based on the labeling in the diagram spanning two cycles). Therefore, the period T is \(\frac{0.6 s }{2}\) = 0.3 s.
The speed of the wave v is given by v = \(\frac{\lambda }{\text{T}}\) = \(\frac{3 m }{0.3 s}\) = 10 m/s.
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #45466)