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Wave Phenomena — Syllabus

NIOS · Class 12 · Physics

What Wave Phenomena covers in NIOS Class 12 Physics: 4 topics, for the 2026-27 session. Part of the NIOS Class 12 Physics syllabus.

45 questions40 flashcards24 formulas & key relations5 concepts

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4 Topics · NIOS Class 12 Physics · 2026-27

Topics in Wave Phenomena

1

Wave Propagation – Types and Basic Concepts

  • A wave is a disturbance that propagates through a medium (or vacuum for EM waves) carrying energy without transporting matter.
  • Transverse waves: particles vibrate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Example: waves on a stretched string, light waves.
  • Longitudinal waves: particles vibrate parallel to (along) the direction of wave propagation. Example: sound waves in air.
2

Equation of a Simple Harmonic Wave

  • For a wave moving in the +x direction, the displacement at position x and time t is: y(x,t) = a sin(ωt − kx).
  • Here, a = amplitude, ω = angular frequency, k = wave number.
  • The equation can also be written as: y = a sin 2π(t/T − x/λ) or y = a sin(2π/λ)(vt − x).
3

Velocity of Sound – Newton's Formula and Laplace's Correction

  • Newton assumed sound propagation in air is ISOTHERMAL (temperature constant). His formula: v = √(P/ρ).
  • At STP: P = 1.01 × 10⁵ N/m², ρ = 1.29 kg/m³. Newton's value: v ≈ 280 m/s. Experimental value: 333 m/s. Error ≈ 16%.
  • Laplace's correction: Sound propagation is ADIABATIC (rapid compressions and rarefactions; air is a poor heat conductor). Corrected formula: v = √(γP/ρ), where γ = Cₚ/Cᵥ.
4

Principle of Superposition and Interference

  • Principle of Superposition: When two or more waves overlap, the resultant displacement at any point is the vector sum of individual displacements.
  • This principle explains interference, beats, and stationary waves.
  • Waves pass through each other independently — they do not permanently alter each other.

Key Concepts

Central concept: Wave Phenomena

Types of WavesWave ParametersWave EquationVelocity of SoundSuperposition of WavesInterferenceBeatsStationary Waves

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Wave Phenomena for NIOS Class 12 Physics?
Key topics in Wave Phenomena include Wave Propagation – Types and Basic Concepts, Equation of a Simple Harmonic Wave, Velocity of Sound – Newton's Formula and Laplace's Correction, Principle of Superposition and Interference. Study these first, then practise questions on each for the NIOS Class 12 board exam.
How should I revise Wave Phenomena for the NIOS Class 12 board exam?
Learn the core ideas first, then work through the 45 practice questions on Wave Phenomena. Revise definitions regularly and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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