longitudinal waves have vibrations that move

HESI A2

HESI A2 Physics

1. Longitudinal waves have vibrations that move ___________.

A. at right angles to the direction of the vibrations
B. in the direction opposite to that of the wave
C. in the same direction as the wave
D. in waves and troughs

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In longitudinal waves, the vibrations of particles occur in the same direction as the wave propagates. This means the particles move back and forth in the direction of the wave, creating compressions and rarefactions along the wave. Therefore, the correct choice is C, in the same direction as the wave. Choice A is incorrect because transverse waves, not longitudinal waves, have vibrations at right angles to the direction of wave propagation. Choice B is incorrect as it describes the motion in transverse waves. Choice D is incorrect as it is an inaccurate representation of how longitudinal waves propagate.

2. For steady, incompressible flow through a pipe, the mass flow rate (ṁ) is related to the fluid density (ρ), cross-sectional area (A), and average velocity (v) via the continuity equation:

A. ṁ cannot be determined without additional information
B. ṁ = ρvA
C. Bernoulli's principle is solely applicable here
D. The equation of state for the specific fluid is required

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The continuity equation for steady, incompressible flow states that the mass flow rate is the product of the fluid's density, velocity, and cross-sectional area. Hence, ṁ = ρvA. Choice A is incorrect because the mass flow rate can be determined using the given formula. Choice C is incorrect as Bernoulli's principle does not directly relate to the mass flow rate calculation. Choice D is incorrect as the equation of state is not needed to calculate the mass flow rate in this scenario.

3. If a wave has a frequency of 60 hertz, which of the following is true?

A. It completes one cycle per minute.
B. It measures 60 m from crest to crest.
C. It completes 60 cycles per second.
D. It measures 60 m from crest to trough.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The frequency of a wave is the number of cycles it completes in one second. A wave with a frequency of 60 hertz completes 60 cycles per second. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choice A is incorrect because a frequency of 60 hertz means 60 cycles per second, not per minute. Choice B is incorrect as the frequency of the wave does not determine the distance from crest to crest. Choice D is also incorrect as the frequency does not relate to the distance from crest to trough.

4. Bernoulli's principle for an incompressible, inviscid fluid in steady flow states that the mechanical energy, consisting of:

A. Pressure (P) only, remains constant along a streamline.
B. Velocity (v) only, remains constant along a streamline.
C. P + ½ρv² (total mechanical energy), remains constant along a streamline
D. Density (ρ) only, remains constant along a streamline.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Bernoulli's principle states that the sum of pressure energy (P), kinetic energy per unit volume (½ρv²), and potential energy per unit volume remains constant along a streamline in an incompressible, inviscid fluid. This means the total mechanical energy of the fluid is conserved, making Choice C the correct answer. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because Bernoulli's principle involves the conservation of the total mechanical energy, not just pressure, velocity, or density alone.

5. What is the electric field inside a hollow conductor with a net charge?

A. Remains constant
B. Decreases
C. Zero
D. Becomes unpredictable

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Zero. According to Gauss’s Law, the electric field inside a hollow conductor (a conductor with no charge inside but a net charge on its surface) is zero. The charges reside on the outer surface of the conductor, causing the electric field inside to cancel out. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the electric field inside a hollow conductor with a net charge is not constant, does not decrease, and does not become unpredictable; it is zero due to the distribution of charges on its surface.