CourseCourseConceptConceptDocsDocuments

IB Physics HL C 3 5 Superposition Questions

Practise IB Physics HL C.3.5 by solving resultant-wave and interference problems, including intensity changes from multiple coherent sources.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Solve resultant displacement and intensity questions for overlapping waves and pulses.
  • Explain constructive or destructive interference using phase, amplitude and coherent-source conditions.
  • Interpret multi-source wave graphs and justify the resulting intensity or displacement pattern.

Learn this topic

Study C.3.5—Superposition conceptsOpen the corresponding Concept lesson for explanations, examples and exam connections.

IB Physics HL C 3 5 Superposition Questions question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

Two loudspeakers, A and B, are driven in phase and with the same amplitude at a frequency of 850 Hz . Point P is located 22.5 m from A and 24.3 m from B. The speed of sound is 340 ms−1340 \mathrm{~ms}^{-1}.

Figure for Question IB Physics HL C 3 5 Superposition Questions question 1 — IB Physics HL

When both loudspeakers are operating, the intensity of sound recorded at Q is I0I_{0}. Loudspeaker B is now disconnected. Loudspeaker A continues to emit sound with unchanged amplitude and frequency. The intensity of sound recorded at Q changes to IAI_{\mathrm{A}}.

Estimate IAI0\frac{I_{\mathrm{A}}}{I_{0}}.

All question bank results loaded