A metal panel is driven to vibrate at different frequencies - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 32 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 32
A metal panel is driven to vibrate at different frequencies. The amplitude of the vibration is measured at each frequency. The graph shows the variation of amplitude... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A metal panel is driven to vibrate at different frequencies - AQA - A-Level Physics - Question 32 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which graph on the opposite page shows the variation of $a$ with frequency with increased damping?
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Answer
When damping is increased, the amplitude of the vibration at resonance tends to decrease and the resonance peak broadens. This means that the height of the peak in the graph will be lower and the curve will spread wider.
Comparing the options:
Graph A shows a singular peak which is not broad, suggesting minimal damping.
Graph B presents a very similar peak as A, hence not sufficient damping.
Graph C has a higher peak compared to A and B, indicating even less damping.
Graph D shows a peak that is lower and wider than the others, which is characteristic of increased damping.