P6 Waves Flashcards
Describe a Longitudinal wave.
Longitudinal waves oscillate in parallel to the direction of energy transfer. E.G. sound waves, seismic P waves
Describe a transverse wave.
Transverse waves oscillate in perpendicular to the direction of energy. E.g. water waves, Seismic S waves.
What is the wavelength of a wave?
The length of one complete wave.
What is the time period of a wave?
time taken for one wave to pass. (s)
What is the frequency of a wave?
number of waves that pass every second (Hz).
What is the relationship between frequency and time period.
They are reciprocals.
what is the equation for wave speed?
Wavespeed = frequency x wavelength.
What happens with sound waves?
Makes the eardrum vibrate.
What frequencies can humans hear?
20Hz to 20,000Hz.
What state can transverse s waves not pass through?
Liquid.
What happens when a wave reflects off a smooth surface?
Angle of incidence = angle of reflection
What happens when waves reflect off of a rough surface?
Light will be scattered.
What waves can travel through space?
Electromagnetic waves.
What waves make up the EM spectrum?
Radio waves, Microwaves, Infra-red, visible light, UV, X-rays and Gamma rays
How are EM waves emitted and absorbed?
By electrons apart from Gamma which is through nuclei.
