Checkpoint 1 — Wave Basics Review
In 2003, CSIRO researchers used v = fλ to track a sonar signal bouncing off the seafloor at 1,500 m/s — checkpoint your wave basics before tackling the real tools.
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The hook for this checkpoint reminded you that CSIRO scientists use wave properties every day — sonar, radio telescopes, and more — but only because they have the basics locked in.
Looking back at what you worked through today, which of those basics do you now feel most confident about? Which one still needs more practice before you'd feel ready to use it as a tool?
1. Which of the following is transferred by a wave?
2. In a transverse wave, particles vibrate:
3. What is the unit of frequency?
4. The distance between two consecutive crests is called the:
5. Which wave can travel through a vacuum?
6. A wave has a frequency of 5 Hz. How many waves pass a point in 3 seconds?
7. What does amplitude measure?
8. The wave equation is:
9. In a longitudinal wave, regions where particles are spread apart are called:
10. If the speed of a wave stays constant and its frequency doubles, its wavelength:
Distinguish between transverse and longitudinal waves, giving one example of each. In your answer, describe the direction of particle vibration relative to the direction of wave travel. (4 marks)
Hint: Use clear diagrams or descriptions to show the difference in particle motion.
A wave has a frequency of 20 Hz and a wavelength of 0.5 m. Calculate its speed. If the frequency is increased to 40 Hz in the same medium, what is the new wavelength? Explain your reasoning. (4 marks)
Hint: Use v = f × λ for both parts. Remember that speed stays constant in the same medium.