Basic: Waves

Question 0

Define frequency.

Answer 0

Frequency is how many waves per second are passing a certain point. It is measured in Hertz (Hz)

Question 1

Define wavelength.

Answer 1

The wavelength is the distance from one peak to the next.

Question 2

How many waves would pass a given point in 3 seconds if the frequency of the wave was 5Hz?

Answer 2

Speed x Wavelength = frequency

15

Question 3

Define amplitude.

Answer 3

Amplitude is the height of the wave from the mid-line to the peak

Question 4

Complete this sentence:

The length of one complete osculation (wave) is also given by the _______.

Answer 4

The length of one complete osculation (wave) is given by the wave length.

Question 5

What two things can waves carry?

Answer 5

Energy and information.

Question 6

What can waves not carry?

Answer 6

Matter

Question 7

Give the formula, that links speed, frequency and wavelength (include the units and symbols of each).

Answer 7

Wave speed (v) = Frequency (Hz) x Wavelength ( upside-down y)

Question 8

Give the formula, that links distance, speed and time.

Answer 8

distance (d) = speed (v) x time (t)

Question 9

Describe a transverse wave. Give examples.

Answer 9

Most waves are transverse waves: Transverse waves vibrate at 90 degrees to the direction of travel. Here are some examples:
All electromagnetic waves are transverse waves
S-waves
Waves on strings
Sea waves.

Question 10

Describe a longitudinal wave. Give examples.

Answer 10

A longitudinal wave vibrates along the direction of travel. Here are some examples:
Sound and ultrasound
P-waves
A slinky spring when you push and pull the end.