CAIE IGCSE Physics Ripple Tank Demonstrations

Practise describing ripple-tank setups that demonstrate reflection, depth-driven refraction and diffraction at a gap or edge from observed wavefronts.

Exam points

generate plane waves with a vibrating bar and observe reflection from a straight barrier
use a shallow region to change wave speed and spacing and demonstrate refraction
place a gap or edge in the wave path and record curved, spreading wavefronts

[Maximum number: 6]

(a)

Fig. 6.1 shows wavefronts approaching a gap in a barrier.

Fig. 6.1

[ 2 ]

(i)

On Fig. 6.1, draw three wavefronts to the right of the barrier.

[ 2 ]

(b)

Describe, with a labelled diagram, an experiment using water waves that shows the reflection of wavefronts that occur at a straight barrier.

[ 4 ]

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3.1.8—Use of a ripple tank to show: (a) question 1

Question (a)

Question (i)

Question (b)