12 - 13 Flashcards
Wave
A vibration that transfers energy from one place to another without transferring matter.
Transverse
Vibrations are at right angles to the direction of travel eg. water waves.
Longitudinal
Vibrations are parallel to the direction of travel eg. sound waves.
Rarefaction
Areas in a longitudinal wave where the particles are further apart (low pressure).
Compression
Areas in a longitudinal wave where the particles are closer together (high pressure).
Amplitude
The maximum displacement of a particle from its undisturbed position.
Wavelength
The distance from a point on one wave to the next equivalent point on the next wave.
Frequency
The number of waves passing a point in one second.
Time period
The time taken for one complete wave
WAVE speed
Wave speed = frequency x wavelength
PERIOD
Period = 1 ÷ frequency
