Waves and applied problems

🎯 Class Objective:

The student proposes and evaluates analog models to explain wave phenomena, using equations and graphs to support reasoning and justify the choice of representation in applied problem-solving situations.

🌊 Wave Motion Activities

🌟 A) Identify the Wave

Classify each as transverse / longitudinal and mechanical / electromagnetic:

• Ocean surface waves

• X-rays

• Compression wave in a spring (slinky)

• Radio waves

• Shock wave from an explosion

📐 B) Wave Equation Practice

Use v = λf.

• A wave has λ = 2.5 m and f = 4 Hz. Find the speed.

• A wave travels at v = 300 m/s and has wavelength λ = 0.50 m. Find the frequency.

• A wave has speed 20 m/s. If frequency increases from 5 Hz to 10 Hz, the wavelength:
  doubles / halves / stays the same

Explain your choice in one line.

🔊 C) Energy & Amplitude (Reasoning)

• Two waves move through the same medium. Wave X has three times the amplitude of Wave Y.
  Which wave carries more energy? Explain briefly.

• True / False (justify in one line):

  • Increasing amplitude changes the energy of the wave.

  • Increasing frequency changes the speed of the wave in the same medium.

🌍 D) Seismic Waves (Applied)

• Why can P-waves travel through both solids and liquids?

• A seismic station detects P-waves first and S-waves later.
  What does this tell us about the distance to the epicenter? (qualitative reasoning)