P4.1 Wave Behaviour Flashcards
What is a Wave ?
A wave is an oscillation that transfers energy
What is a longitudinal wave ? Give an example ?
Sound waves are longitudinal.
The direction of vibration of individual air molecules is the same as the same direction of the wave.
What is a transverse wave
In transverse waves, the direction of vibration is right angle to the direction of the travel of the wave.
What is the definition of “amplitude”? What is the symbol? What is the unit of measurement?
The distance from the middle to the top (crest) or bottom of the wave (trough) of a wave.
The symbol is ‘ A ‘
The measurement depends on the wave (For example metres or volts)
What is the definition of “wavelength”? What is the symbol? What is the unit of measurement?
The distance from one point on a wave to the same point on the next point of the wave.
The symbol is ‘ λ ‘
The unit of measurement is in metres (m)
What is the definition of “frequency”? What is the symbol? What is the unit of measurement?
The number of waves or oscillation per second
The symbol is ‘ F ‘
The unit of measurement is Hertz (Hz)
What is the definition of “time period”? What is the symbol for it? What is the unit of measurement?
The time for one wave to pass a given point
The symbol is ‘ T ‘
The unit of measurement is in seconds (S)
What is the formula for wave velocity?
Wave Velocity (m/s) = Frequency Hz()x Wavelength (m)
