how do you determine the velocity of a wave

HESI A2

HESI A2 Physics

1. How do you determine the velocity of a wave?

A. Multiply the frequency by the wavelength.
B. Add the frequency and the wavelength.
C. Subtract the wavelength from the frequency.
D. Divide the wavelength by the frequency.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The velocity of a wave can be determined by multiplying the frequency of the wave by the wavelength. This relationship is given by the formula: velocity = frequency × wavelength. By multiplying the frequency by the wavelength, you can calculate the speed at which the wave is traveling. This formula is derived from the basic wave equation v = f × λ, where v represents velocity, f is frequency, and λ is wavelength. Therefore, to find the velocity of a wave, one must multiply its frequency by its wavelength. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Adding, subtracting, or dividing the frequency and wavelength does not yield the correct calculation for wave velocity. The correct formula for determining wave velocity is to multiply the frequency by the wavelength.

2. Cavitation is a phenomenon observed in fluids when the pressure falls below its:

A. Boiling point
B. Density
C. Freezing point
D. Vapor pressure

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cavitation is a phenomenon where vapor bubbles form in a fluid due to pressure dropping below the vapor pressure of the liquid. When this occurs, the bubbles collapse, creating intense shock waves. The pressure falling below the vapor pressure is what triggers cavitation, not the boiling point, density, or freezing point of the fluid. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Vapor pressure,' as it directly relates to the pressure threshold required for cavitation to happen.

3. The Reynolds number (Re) is a dimensionless quantity used to characterize:

A. Fluid density
B. Flow regime (laminar vs. turbulent)
C. Surface tension effects
D. Buoyancy force magnitude

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The Reynolds number is a dimensionless quantity used to characterize the flow regime, specifically whether it is laminar (smooth) or turbulent (chaotic). It depends on the velocity of the fluid, its characteristic length (such as pipe diameter), and its viscosity. A low Reynolds number indicates laminar flow, while a high Reynolds number suggests turbulence. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the Reynolds number is not related to fluid density, surface tension effects, or buoyancy force magnitude.

4. What is the SI unit for quantifying the transfer of energy due to an applied force?

A. Newton (N)
B. Meter per second (m/s)
C. Joule (J)
D. Kilogram (kg)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Joule (J). The joule is the SI unit used to quantify the transfer of energy due to an applied force. It is defined as the work done when a force of one newton is applied over a distance of one meter. Newton (N) is the unit of force, not energy transfer. Meter per second (m/s) is the unit of speed, not energy transfer. Kilogram (kg) is the unit of mass, not energy transfer. Therefore, the correct unit for quantifying the transfer of energy due to an applied force is the joule (J).

5. A common example of a shear-thinning (non-Newtonian) fluid is:

A. Water
B. Ketchup
C. Air
D. Alcohol

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ketchup. Shear-thinning fluids become less viscous under stress. Ketchup is an example of a shear-thinning fluid because its viscosity decreases when it is shaken or squeezed, allowing it to flow more easily. Choice A, Water, is a Newtonian fluid with a constant viscosity regardless of stress. Choice C, Air, is also a Newtonian fluid. Choice D, Alcohol, does not exhibit shear-thinning behavior; it typically has a constant viscosity as well.