When a source of sound moves towards a stationary observer, the apparent frequency: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

When a source of sound moves towards a stationary observer, the apparent frequency:
A. Becomes zero
B. Remains same
C. Increases
D. Decreases
Answer: Option C
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
This is the Doppler effect: when source moves toward observer, wavefronts compress, decreasing wavelength, thus increasing apparent frequency (f' = f·v/(v - v_s), where v is sound speed, v_s source speed). Conversely, receding source decreases frequency. This applies to all waves (light, sound). Memory aid: 'Approaching = higher pitch (frequency); Receding = lower pitch'. Competitive exams often test qualitative understanding before formula application. Always identify motion direction relative to observer for sign conventions in numerical problems.

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Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
In a potentiometer experiment, the balancing length for a cell is 60 cm. When the cell is shunted by a 2Ω resistor, the balancing length becomes 40 cm. The internal resistance of the cell is:
A. 1Ω
B. 2Ω
C. 3Ω
D. 4Ω

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Potentiometer measures EMF and internal resistance. Formula: r = R(L₁ - L₂)/L₂, where R is shunt resistance, L₁ initial balancing length, L₂ after shunting. Here R=2Ω, L₁=60 cm, L₂=40 cm. Thus r = 2×(60-40)/40 = 2×20/40 = 1Ω. This derives from terminal voltage V = E - Ir and potentiometer principle V ∝ balancing length. Memory tip: 'r = R(L₁/L₂ - 1)'. This advanced numerical tests potentiometer applications, common in competitive exams for experimental physics. Always verify the formula derivation to avoid misapplication.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
The phenomenon of polarization of light demonstrates that light is a:
A. Mechanical wave
B. Matter wave
C. Longitudinal wave
D. Transverse wave

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Polarization (restriction of electric field oscillation to one plane) is possible only for transverse waves, where oscillations are perpendicular to propagation direction. Longitudinal waves (e.g., sound) cannot be polarized as oscillations are along propagation. This was key evidence for light's transverse wave nature. Memory aid: 'Polarization ⇒ transverse wave; light is EM transverse wave'. This conceptual question tests wave optics fundamentals, frequently examined in competitive exams. Always distinguish wave types: transverse (light, string waves) vs longitudinal (sound, spring waves).

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #3
The mode of heat transfer that can occur in vacuum is:
A. Convection
B. Both conduction and convection
C. Conduction
D. Radiation

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Radiation transfers heat via electromagnetic waves and requires no medium, thus works in vacuum (e.g., solar energy reaching Earth). Conduction needs direct contact between particles; convection requires fluid movement. Vacuum lacks matter for conduction/convection. Memory tip: 'Radiation = only mode in vacuum'. This fundamental distinction is frequently tested in competitive exams. Applications include thermos flasks (minimizing all three modes) and space technology. Always recall that radiation speed is light speed, while conduction/convection are much slower.

This question belongs to: Science Physics