Physics - Waves Flashcards
In a transverse wave, are the vibrations perpendicular to the direction of energy or parallel to the direction of energy?
Perpendicular
In a longitudinal wave, are the vibrations perpendicular to the direction of energy or parallel to the direction of energy?
Parallel
What is an example of a transverse wave?
Water waves and light waves
What is an example of a longitudinal wave?
Sound waves
What is the frequency of a wave?
The number of waves which pass a given point every second
What is the equation for the time period?
time period (s) = 1 ÷ frequency (Hz)
What is the wave speed?
How quickly energy is transferred through a medium (how quickly the wave travels)
What is the equation for wave speed?
wave speed (m/s) = frequency (Hz) x wavelength (m)
What is the equation for speed?
speed = distance ÷ time
What determines the speed sound waves can travel through a medium?
The density of the medium (material)
Do sound waves travel faster through a solid or liquid?
Solid because the spaces between the particles are smaller. This means the vibrations and energy can be passed along the particles more quickly. In a gas, the transmission of sound is even slower as the space between the particles is greater.
What is the speed of sound in air?
300m/s
How do you measure a wavelength in the ripple tank required practical?
Use a meter rule and make an estimate quickly. You could use a stroboscope and freeze the waves to make this measurement more easily. Record 10 and calculate the mean for a more accurate recording.
What causes seismic waves?
Volcanoes, earthquakes and explosions
What are ultrasound waves?
Sound waves that have a higher frequency than the range which is detectable by the human ear