Reflection, refraction, diffraction and polarisation Flashcards
1
Q
Refraction
A
When a wave changes direction due to chnaging medium through which it is travelling through
2
Q
Diffraction
A
When a wave “expands” to cover more area.
Higher diffraction happens when a wave’s wavelength is equal to or smaller than the gap thorugh which it passes.
3
Q
Reflection
A
When a wave hits a surface and bounces off
4
Q
Polarisation
A
Only applicable to transverse waves as they oscillate in both the electric and magnetic fields, which are normally to each other. This is because polarising a transverse wave will allow an oscillation from either field to get pass through, whereas a longitudinal wave not.
5
Q
Wave equations
A
v=fλ
c=fλ