5. General Wave Properties Flashcards
Wave
Definition + What a wave source is
A disturbance that propagates through space, transferring energy with it but not matter.
The wave source is a vibration or oscillation which can be periodic (regular, repeated).
Wave in a Rope
How it is formed + How KE is transferred + How particles move
- As the hand moves up and down, a rope wave is formed. The wave moves through the rope, from left (hand) to right (wall).
- Kinetic energy is transferred from the moving hand to the rope, eventually to the wall.
- As the wave moves through the rope, the rope particles move up and down about their rest positions. There is no transfer of matter along the rope.
Waves transfer energy from one point to another, without transferring any matter.
Wave in a Ripple Tank (water)
How it is formed + How KE is transferred + How particles move
- As the dipper moves up and down, a water wave (ripple) is formed. The water wave moves outwards from the dipper to the edges of the ripple tank.
- Kinetic energy is transferred from the dipper to the water, eventually to the edges of the ripple tank.
- The water particles move up and down about their rest positions. Water (matter) is not transferred from the dipper to the edges of the ripple tank.
Waves transfer energy from one point to another, without transferring any matter.
Transverse Wave
Definition + Example
A transverse wave has a direction of vibration that is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
Example: Electromagnetic waves, rope waves
Longitudinal Wave
Definition + Example
A longitudinal wave has a direction of vibration that is parallel to the direction of wave propagation.
Example: Sound
Crest & Trough
Definitions
A crest is the highest point of a transverse wave.
A trough is the lowest point of a transverse wave.
Amplitude
Definition
Amplitude is the maximum displacement of a point from its rest position.
Wavelength (λ)
Definition
Wavelength is the shortest distance between any two points of a wave which are in phase.
Period (T)
Definition
The time taken to produce one complete wave.
(The time taken by each point on the wave to complete one oscilation)
Frequency (f)
Definition
The number of complete waves produced per unit time.
(The number of oscilations completed per unit time)
Wave Speed (v)
Definition
The distance travelled by the wave per unit time.
Wavefront
Definition
Wavefront is an imaginary line on a wave that joins all adjacent points that are in phase.
- The direction of wave travel is always perpendicular to the wave front.
- The distance between two successive wavefronts is the wavelength.
How does depth of water affect wavelength and wave speed?
Compare shallower and deeper water
Shallower:
Slower and shorter wavelength
Deeper:
Faster and longer wavelength
