Types Of Waves

Question 1

Transverse Wave

Answer 1

The particles oscillate at right-angles to the direction of energy transfer (propagation). E.g. light

Question 2

Longitudinal Wave

Answer 2

The particles oscillate parallel to the direction of energy transfer (propagation). E.g. sound

Question 3

Radio-Wave

Answer 3

Typical wavelength: 10^2m

Example application: TV & radio transmission

Question 4

Microwave

Answer 4

Typical wavelength: 10^-2m

Example application: mobile phones

Question 5

Infrared (IR)

Answer 5

Typical wavelength: 10^-6m

Example application: thermo-imaging

Question 6

Visible Light

Answer 6

Typical wavelength: 7 x 10^-7m (red) to 4 x 10^-7m
(violet)
Example application: photography, human eyesight

Question 7

Ultraviolet (UV)

Answer 7

Typical wavelength: 10^-8m

Example application: security markings

Question 8

X-Ray

Answer 8

Typical wavelength: 10^-10m

Example application: medical, airport scanners

Question 9

Gamma Ray (γ)

Answer 9

Typical wavelength: 10^-12m

Example application: sterilisation of medical equipment

Question 10

Speed of Light

Answer 10

Speed of light in a vacuum, c = 3 x 10^8 ms^-1