Wave definitions

Question 1

Define amplitude

Answer 1

The maximum magnitude of the displacement

Question 2

Define wavelength

Answer 2

The length of one whole wave cycle from crest to crest

Question 3

Define wave speed

Answer 3

the speed at which a point of constant phrase moves

Question 4

Define wave frequency

Answer 4

The number of cycles per second passing a given point

Question 5

Define time period

Answer 5

The time taken for a whole cycle to complete

Question 6

Define a longitudinal wave

Answer 6

It is where the vibrations are parallel to the direction in which the wave travels

Question 7

State the equation linking frequency and time period

Answer 7

f=1/T

Question 8

Define a transverse wave

Answer 8

The wave vibrations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer

Question 9

Define phase difference

Answer 9

The amount one wave lags behind another

Question 10

Define phase

Answer 10

a measurement of the position of a certain point along the wave cycle

Question 11

Define displacement

Answer 11

how far a point on the wave has moved from its undisturbed position

Question 12

What equation link speed, frequency and wavelength?

Answer 12

v = f x λ

Question 13

Define intensity

Answer 13

Energy per unit time

Question 14

Define a plane polarised wave

Answer 14

oscillations are in one direction only and are

perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation

Question 15

Define a progressive wave

Answer 15

is a transfer of energy as a result of oscillations

Question 16

State difference between progressive wave and stationary waves

Answer 16

1) a progressive wave transfers energy

2) a progressive wave transfers shape

Question 17

State the principle of superposition waves

Answer 17

when 2 or more waves meet

Question 18

Define a diffraction wave

Answer 18

wave fronts spread out after passing through a gap or around an obstacle

Question 19

State two features of a stationary wave

Answer 19

1) energy is trapped in pockets

2) there are nodes

Question 20

Explain IR

Answer 20

infra red is part of the e-m spectrum and longer λ than the visible light

Question 21

Define interference

Answer 21

when two waves meet at a point there is a change in overall intensity

Question 22

Define coherence

Answer 22

constant phase difference between the waves