Wave definitions Flashcards
Define amplitude
The maximum magnitude of the displacement
Define wavelength
The length of one whole wave cycle from crest to crest
Define wave speed
the speed at which a point of constant phrase moves
Define wave frequency
The number of cycles per second passing a given point
Define time period
The time taken for a whole cycle to complete
Define a longitudinal wave
It is where the vibrations are parallel to the direction in which the wave travels
State the equation linking frequency and time period
f=1/T
Define a transverse wave
The wave vibrations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer
Define phase difference
The amount one wave lags behind another
Define phase
a measurement of the position of a certain point along the wave cycle
Define displacement
how far a point on the wave has moved from its undisturbed position
What equation link speed, frequency and wavelength?
v = f x λ
Define intensity
Energy per unit time
Define a plane polarised wave
oscillations are in one direction only and are
perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation
Define a progressive wave
is a transfer of energy as a result of oscillations
State difference between progressive wave and stationary waves
1) a progressive wave transfers energy
2) a progressive wave transfers shape
State the principle of superposition waves
when 2 or more waves meet
Define a diffraction wave
wave fronts spread out after passing through a gap or around an obstacle
State two features of a stationary wave
1) energy is trapped in pockets
2) there are nodes
Explain IR
infra red is part of the e-m spectrum and longer λ than the visible light
Define interference
when two waves meet at a point there is a change in overall intensity
Define coherence
constant phase difference between the waves
