P1.5.1 Waves

Question 1

What is oscillation ?

Answer 1

Vibration or repetitive patterns of movement for example up and down, side to side

Question 2

Waves have amplitude, wavelength and frequency.

Answer 2

All waves transfer energy

Question 3

Transverse waves have sideways vibrations

Answer 3

Most waves are transverse:

• light
• ripples on water
• waves in strings
• a slinky Spring wiggled up and down

Question 4

Longitudinal waves have vibrations along the same line.

Answer 4

Longitudinal waves are:

• sound waves and ultrasound
• shock waves
• a slink when you push the end

Question 5

Wave speed= frequency x wavelength

Answer 5

Speed = m/s
Frequency =Hz
Wavelength = m

Question 6

Waves properties

Answer 6

All waves can be reflected, refracted and diffracted

Reflection of light lets us see things

Question 7

Diffraction ?

Answer 7

The spreading out of waves after they pass through a narrow gap; this effect is most noticeable when the gap is the same size as the wavelength of the wave.

Question 8

Diffraction-waves spreading out

Answer 8

Refraction-changing the speed of a wave can change its direction

Question 9

Electromagnetic waves?

Answer 9

Radio Micro Infrared visible ultra X-rays

Waves Waves Light Violet

Question 10

What is a wave ?

Answer 10

An oscillation that travels and transfers energy