Physics (waves)

Question 1

The amplitude of a wave-

Answer 1

Is the displacement from the rest position to a crest or trough.

Question 2

The wavelength-

Answer 2

Is the length of a full cycle of the wave.

Question 3

Frequency-

Answer 3

Is the number of complete cycles of the wave passing a certain point per second. Frequency is measured in hertz.

Question 4

The period of a wave-

Answer 4

Is the number of seconds it takes for one full cycle.

Question 5

Transverse waves-

Answer 5

The vibrations are perpendicular to the direction the wave travels. Most waves are transverse including:

1. All electromagnetic waves
2. S-waves
3. Ripples and waves in water.

Question 6

Longitudinal waves-

Answer 6

The vibrations are parallel to the direction the wave travels.
Examples are sound waves and p-waves.

Question 7

Wave speed =frequency x wavelength.

Answer 7

Wave speed = distance divided by time

Question 8

Refraction-

Answer 8

Waves changing direction at a boundary.