Question Detail
Question
A point on a sinusoidal wave takes 3 seconds to travel from its maximum displacement to its lowest point. If the distance between two consecutive points of zero displacement (at a particular instant) is 1.5 m, calculate the speed of the wave.
Correct Answer
Option B is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
Traveling from maximum displacement (crest) to lowest point (trough) covers half a period. So, T/2 = 3s, which means the period T = 6s.The frequency f = 1/T = 1/6 Hz.The distance between two consecutive points of zero displacement (nodes or equilibrium crossings) is half a wavelength (λ/2). So, λ/2 = 1.5 m, which means the wavelength λ = 3 m.The wave speed v = fλ = (1/6 Hz) * (3 m) = 0.5 m/s.
Hint
Understand what 'maximum displacement to lowest point' and 'distance between two points at zero displacement' signify in terms of period and wavelength, respectively.