Combined Physics - P6 Waves Flashcards
What two types of wave are there?
- Transverse
- Longitudinal
Give an example of a longitudinal wave
Sound
Describe how longitudinal waves transfer energy.
Vibrations are parallel to energy transfer
Give an example of a transverse wave
- All electromagnetic waves
- A ripple on water
- A wave on a string
Describe how transverse waves transfer energy.
Vibrations are perpendicular to energy transfer
Compare the sound of the two waves in the image in terms of loudness and pitch.
- They have the same loudness.
- Wave B has a higher pitch.
Name the properties of the wave labelled a) and b)
a) Wavelength
b) Amplitude
Name the two regions of a longitudinal wave labelled ‘C’ and ‘R’.
C = compression
R = rarefaction
What equation links wave speed, frequency and wavelength?
Wave speed = frequency x wavelength
V = 𝘧 λ
What are X-rays used for?
Medical imaging
What EM waves can our eyes detect?
Visible light
What are gamma rays used for?
- Killing cancer cells
- Sterilizing medical equipment
What does frequency mean?
The number of complete waves passing a certain point in a second (1 Hz is 1 wave per second)
What EM waves can have hazardous effects on human body?
Ultraviolet waves, X-rays and gamma rays
Which EM wave causes skin cancer?
Ultraviolet waves cause skin cancer