Wave Motion Flashcards
Progressive Wave
Transfer of energy as the result of oscillations of the medium through which the energy is travelling
Longitudinal Wave
The oscillation of particles is parallel to the direction of travel/ energy transfer of the wave
Transverse Wave
The oscillation of particles is perpendicular to the direction of travel/ energy transfer of the wave
Mechanical Waves
Energy is transferred through a medium (i.e. by the oscillations of particles)
Displacement
The distance moved from equilibrium for a point on a wave
Amplitude
The maximum displacement from the equilibrium position
Wavelength
The minimum distance between two points oscillating in phase, for example the distance between one peak to the next. The length of one complete wave cycle, in metres
Period
The time taken for one complete wavelength to pass a given point OR the time taken to complete one oscillation. Measured in seconds
Frequency
The number of wavelength cycles passing a given point per unit time
Phase
The position of an oscillating particle or field at a given time on a wave cycle, expressed in degrees or radians, where 1 full wave cycle = 360 degrees or 2π radians
Wave Speed
The distance travelled by the wave per unit time
