science waves Flashcards
Wave
is a rhythmic disturbance that carries energy through matter and space.; carries energy from one place to another. Waves are a form of energy.
Wavelength
distance of a “repeating unit”, also called a cycle; measures how long a wave is
Amplitude
measures DISPLACEMENT (height of a wave) size of the disturbance; distance between “rest & crest” or “rest & trough”
Trough
bottom, or lowest point of a wave
Crest
“peak” or top of a wave
Speed
how fast the wave travels (velocity); measured by multiplying the wavelength by the wave frequency, v = w x f
Frequency
How often number of wavelengths that pass any point per second
number of wavelength
Medium
matter such as solid, liquid, or gas and is what a wave is carried by; ex/ ocean waves move through water
Electromagnetic wave
the energy moves through disturbances in the electromagnetic field. Does not require a medium to travel through; energy is transferred by way of radiation.
Mechanical wave
the energy is transferred by vibrations of medium. Three types of mechanical waves: transverse, longitudinal, and surface waves
Transverse wave
the energy is transferred by vibrations of medium. Three types of mechanical waves: transverse, longitudinal, and surface waves
Longitudinal (compression) wave
Vibration is in the same direction (parallel) as wave pulse (parallel to wave pulse)
Surface wave
Vibration is circular Ex/ Ocean waves; ground surface waves
