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Physics Sound Waves

Asked 2 times in UPSC Prelims · first asked 2006 · last asked 2007

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Newest first — expand for options, answers, and explanations

Consider the following statements: 1) A flute of smaller length produces waves of lower frequency. 2) Sound travels in rocks in the form of longitudinal elastic waves only. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

2007Sci & Tech
A1 only
B2 only
CBoth 1 and 2
DNeither 1 nor 2

Explanation

In this question, we are asked to assess two statements related to physics. The first statement claims that a flute of smaller length produces waves of lower frequency, while the second statement asserts that sound travels in rocks only in the form of longitudinal elastic waves. However, both statements are inaccurate. The frequency of waves produced by a flute actually increases with a smaller length, and sound waves can travel through rocks in both longitudinal and transverse forms. Therefore, the correct answer is option (d) - Neither 1 nor 2.

In which one among the following is the speed of sound maximum?

2006Sci & Tech
AAir at 0°C
BAir at 100°C
CWater
DWood

Explanation

In which of the following mediums is the speed of sound highest? (a) Air at 0°C (b) Air at 100°C (c) Water (d) Wood. The correct answer is (d) Wood. Sound speed is the distance a sound wave travels through an elastic medium in a specific time unit. At 20°C (68°F), sound travels at 343.2 metres per second (1,126 ft/s) through dry air.