C.2 Wave Model Flashcards
Wave
A transfer of energy through a medium with no resultant displacement of the medium. Medium oscillates with SHM about an eq pos as the energy passes through.
Longitudinal waves
Particles of the medium vibrate parallel to the direction of energy transfer (energy propagation). Eg. sound and earthquake P waves
Rarefaction
A feature of a longitudinal wave where the particles spread out
Compression
A feature of a longitudinal wave where the particles move closer together/compress
Transverse waves
Particles of the medium vibrate at right angles to the direction of energy transfer. Eg. Light, earthquake S waves
Crest
Feature of a transverse wave where the particle/s is at max positive displacement
Trough
Feature of a transverse wave where the particle/s is at max negative displacement
Displacement (x)
Distance the medium has moved from the eq pos in a particular direction. Units: m
Frequency (f)
Number of oscillations of the medium (or number of complete waves passing a point) per second. Units: Hz
Period (T)
Time for one complete oscillation of the medium (or time for one complete wave to pass a given point). Units: s
Wavelength (λ)
Shortest distance between two points that are in phase along a wave. Units: m
Wave speed (v)
Distance travelled per unit time by the energy of the wave (ms^-1)
Amplitude (A)
Max displacement of the medium from the equilibrium position. Units: m
Mechanical waves
Require a medium through which to travel. Eg. sound and earthquake waves
Electromagnetic waves
Do not require a medium so they are able to travel through a vacuum. All electromagnetic waves are transverse and travel at 3.00x10^8 ms^-1 in a vacuum. Eg. Visible light, radio waves
