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Question
What are wavelength, frequency, time period and amplitude of a sound wave?
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Solution
- Wavelength: The distance between two consecutive compressions (C) or consecutive rarefactions (R) is called wavelength. The wavelength is usually represented by λ (the Greek letter lambda). Its SI unit is metre (m). Alternatively, the distance covered by a wave in one complete oscillation is called wavelength.
- Frequency: The total number of oscillations in unit time is called frequency. It is represented by v (the Greek letter nu). The SI unit of frequency is hertz. It is represented by the symbol Hz.
- Time Period: The time taken by a wave to complete one oscillation of the density of the medium is called time period (T). In other words, the time taken by two consecutive compressions or two consecutive rarefactions to pass through a given point is called the time period of the wave. Its SI unit is second (S).
- Amplitude: In wave propagation, the maximum displacement (or disturbance) of the particles of the medium on either side of the original position is called a rectangle. It is generally represented by 'A'. Its unit is the unit of pressure or density. The loudness or softness of sound is basically determined by its amplitude.
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