Wave Motion
v = fλ
Guided procedure
- Identify the apparatus and the variables.
- Start with the default settings and note the readings.
- Change one variable at a time.
- Record observations and compare the trend.
- Explain the result using the governing relationship.
In a transverse wave, in which direction do particles oscillate relative to wave travel?
| Trial | Settings | Model response |
|---|---|---|
| No observations recorded yet. | ||
Why should only one independent variable be changed at a time?
Physics V4 · Wave Motion — Investigation & Assessment Studio
Waves and oscillations · Experiment-specific investigation, evidence log, graph analysis and teacher review.
1 · Investigation mission
Objective: Explore the relationships among frequency, wavelength and wave speed.
Wave speed is given by…
Amplitude affects energy, while frequency and wavelength determine wave speed in a given medium.
2 · Fault-finding challenge
A student performs this experiment but obtains an unexpected result. Identify the most likely issue.
3 · Observation notebook & graph
Use the original simulation controls to perform a trial, then enter the observed values. This table records student-entered observations; it does not claim to read every legacy simulation's internal sensors.
| Trial | Frequency (Hz) | Wave speed (m/s) |
|---|
4 · Practical reflection & report
5 · Teacher assessment rubric
6 · Guided experimental procedure
Follow the sequence below and use the original experiment controls above to change one variable at a time.
- Read the objective and identify the independent and dependent variables.
- Inspect the apparatus and reset the simulation to its initial state.
- Change only the independent variable while keeping other conditions controlled.
- Record at least three observations in the notebook.
- Plot the dependent variable against the independent variable and describe the trend.
- Answer the prediction and fault-finding questions, then write an evidence-based conclusion.
Use consistent units, avoid changing multiple variables at once, and distinguish measured observations from theoretical predictions.