A seismograph is used to detect: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

A seismograph is used to detect:
A. Sound waves in water
B. Magnetic field variations
C. Earthquakes
D. Atmospheric pressure changes
Answer: Option C
Solution (By JKExamLibrary)
Seismograph detects and records ground motions caused by earthquakes, volcanic activity, or explosions. It measures seismic waves (P-waves, S-waves). Barometer detects pressure changes; hydrophone detects underwater sound; magnetometer detects magnetic fields. Memory tip: 'Seismo = earthquake (like seismology)'. This instrument-application question tests knowledge of geophysical tools, frequently examined in competitive exams. Always associate instrument names with their field of use: seismograph (geology), barometer (meteorology), etc.

This question belongs to: Science Physics

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Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1 Report Error
If the intensity of a sound is mathematically increased by a factor of 100, its loudness level in decibels (dB) increases strictly by:
A. 2 dB
B. 100 dB
C. 10 dB
D. 20 dB

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
The loudness level in decibels is calculated as L = 10 * log10(I / I0). If intensity I becomes 100I, the new level L' = 10 * log10(100I / I0) = 10 * [log10(100) + log10(I / I0)] = 10 * [2 + L/10] = 20 + L. Therefore, the loudness explicitly increases by 20 dB.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2 Report Error
The percentage error in measurement of a cube's side is 2%. Maximum percentage error in its volume is:
A. 4%
B. 6%
C. 8%
D. 2%

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Volume V = a³. For error propagation: % error in V = 3 × % error in a. Given 2% error in side, volume error = 3×2% = 6%. Power rule: if Q = xⁿ, %ΔQ = |n|×%Δx. Memory tip: Volume depends on cube of length ⇒ errors triple. Common in experimental error analysis questions.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #3 Report Error
In electromagnetic waves, the electric and magnetic fields are:
A. Parallel to each other but perpendicular to propagation
B. Perpendicular to each other and to direction of propagation
C. Parallel to each other and to direction of propagation
D. Randomly oriented

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Electromagnetic waves are transverse: electric field (E) and magnetic field (B) are perpendicular to each other and both perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. This is a fundamental property derived from Maxwell's equations. Memory tip: 'EM waves: E ⊥ B ⊥ propagation direction; right-hand rule for orientation'. This conceptual question tests electromagnetic wave fundamentals, crucial for modern physics in competitive exams. Always recall that EM waves require no medium and travel at speed of light in vacuum.

This question belongs to: Science Physics