Introduction To Waves

Question 1

Define Wave-

Answer 1

A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy through space or a medium (ex. air, water, or a solid.)

Question 2

Types of Waves

Answer 2

Mechanical Waves
- Require a medium to travel (ex. sound waves, water wave)

Transverse waves- The oscillation is perpendicular to the direction of the wave (ex. light waves, waves on a string)

Longitudinal Waves- The oscillation is the same direction as the wave (ex. sound waves, seismic waves)

Electromagnetic Waves- Do not require a medium and can travel through a vacuum (ex. light, radio waves)

Question 3

Key Properties Of Waves-

Answer 3

Amplitude- The maximum distance positive or negative of a wave at its resting position

Wavelength- The distance between the same spots on a wave

Frequency- The # of cycles to pass a point in a second.

Period- Time it takes for a wave to complete its cycle

Wave Speed- Speed at which a wave travels through a medium

Question 4

Wave Speed Formula

Answer 4

V = Frequency x wavelength

Question 5

Relationship between wave speed and medium

Answer 5

The speed of a wave depends on the medium through which it travels.

For mechanical waves the wave speed is influenced by properties like tension (for strings) & density (for air, water, etc.)

Electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light (approx. 3.0 x 10*8 m/s)

Question 6

What is the relationship between wave speed, frequency, and wavelength?

Answer 6

Increasing the frequency or wavelength will change the wave speed, depending on the medium.

For mechanical waves the wave speed is determined by the medium, and frequency and wavelength are inversely related if wave speed is constant.