Melde's Experiment Questions and Answers for Viva

Answer-1: Frequency is a measure of how many oscillations, vibrations, or cycles occur in a given unit of time. It is typically measured in Hertz (Hz), where 1 Hz equals one cycle per second. In the context of waves, it represents the number of wave crests (or troughs) that pass a fixed point per unit of time.

Answer-2: Linear density refers to the mass per unit length of a one-dimensional object, such as a string or wire. It is typically measured in kilograms per meter (kg/m).

Answer-3: In Melde's experiment, the tuning fork is typically mechanically driven. It is set into vibration by a mechanical oscillator, such as a bow or a rotating wheel, rather than being driven electrically.

Answer-4: Beats occur when two waves of slightly different frequencies interfere with each other. The result is a pattern of alternating loud and soft sounds. This phenomenon is often heard when two musical notes are played together, and the difference in their frequencies creates the beat frequency.

Answer-5: Nodes are points in a stationary wave where the displacement of the medium is always zero. This means that the particles at nodes do not move; they remain at rest.
Antinodes are points in a stationary wave where the displacement of the medium is maximum. These are the points where the amplitude of the wave is greatest.

Answer-6: The units of linear density are typically kilograms per meter (kg/m), and the units of tension are typically newtons (N).

Answer-7: A standing wave (or stationary wave) is a wave pattern that appears to be "stationary" because it results from the interference of two waves traveling in opposite directions. The points of constructive and destructive interference create nodes and antinodes within the wave.

Answer-8: A stationary wave, also known as a standing wave, is a wave pattern that appears to stay in one place without moving through the medium. It is formed by the superposition of two waves traveling in opposite directions with the same frequency and amplitude. Nodes and antinodes are characteristic of stationary waves.

Answer-9: A traveling wave is a wave that propagates through a medium, carrying energy and information from one place to another. Unlike a stationary wave, a traveling wave moves through space.

Answer-10: A transverse wave is a type of wave in which the displacement of the medium (particles) is perpendicular to the direction of the wave's propagation. Examples include waves on a string or electromagnetic waves.
A longitudinal wave is a type of wave in which the displacement of the medium is parallel to the direction of wave propagation. Sound waves in air are examples of longitudinal waves.

Answer-11: Tuning forks primarily produce sound waves. These sound waves are mechanical, longitudinal waves that travel through the air or a medium, depending on where the tuning fork is placed.

Answer-12: An electric tuning fork is not a standard term. However, it might refer to a tuning fork that is electronically excited or driven by an electrical signal, while a normal tuning fork is traditionally set into vibration by striking it or using a mechanical device such as a bow. The key difference is in the method of vibration initiation.

Answer-13: The main difference between longitudinal and transverse waves is the direction of particle oscillation relative to the direction of wave propagation:
In a transverse wave, particle oscillations are perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of wave motion.
In a longitudinal wave, particle oscillations occur parallel to the direction of wave motion.

Answer-14: "Standing waves" and "stationary waves" are essentially synonymous terms used to describe the same phenomenon. Both refer to wave patterns that do not appear to move and result from the superposition of two waves traveling in opposite directions. Nodes and antinodes are characteristic of these waves, and they are used interchangeably in most contexts.

Answer-15: The distance between two successive nodes or two antinodes in a standing wave pattern is half of the wavelength (?/2).

Answer-16: Temperature can affect the frequency of a tuning fork. An increase in temperature generally causes an increase in the speed of sound in the surrounding medium (e.g., air), which can, in turn, affect the frequency of the tuning fork. This effect is due to changes in the density and elasticity of the medium with temperature.

Answer-17: The purpose of Melde's apparatus is to study and demonstrate the modes of vibration of a tuning fork and to investigate the formation of stationary waves on a vibrating string. This experiment helps to understand the fundamental principles of wave behavior, nodes, antinodes, and the relationship between frequency and wavelength in standing waves.

Answer-18: Vibration refers to a repetitive or oscillatory motion of an object or a particle about an equilibrium position. It involves periodic back-and-forth or up-and-down movement around a central point.