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QLDPhysicsQuick questions
Unit 2: Linear motion and waves
Quick questions on Standing waves and resonance (QCE Physics Unit 2)
7short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is confusing the closed-pipe series with the open-pipe series?Show answer
Closed pipes only have odd harmonics. Drawing the antinode at the wrong end is the most common error.
What is treating the string fundamental as $\lambda_1 = L$?Show answer
A string fixed at both ends has nodes at the ends, so the fundamental has only one antinode and $\lambda_1 = 2L$, not $L$.
What is forgetting end correction in air columns?Show answer
Real open ends have antinodes slightly outside the physical pipe. QCAA problems use ideal pipes unless they specify a correction.
What is treating resonance as one specific frequency?Show answer
Resonance happens at every natural frequency, not just the fundamental.
What is iA1?Show answer
Often a stimulus showing the standing-wave pattern on a string or in a pipe and asking for either the harmonic number or the length given a frequency and speed.
What is eA Paper 1?Show answer
Multiple choice on which harmonics are present in closed pipes versus open pipes.
What is eA Paper 2?Show answer
A two-part question on a musical-instrument system, typically asking for wave speed and then a higher harmonic.
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