Wave properties Flashcards
what are the different types of waves?
transverse and longitudinal
describe the properties of transverse waves
-move at right angles to the direction of motion
what are some examples of transverse waves?
light and water waves
peak
highest point on a wave
trough
lowest point on a wave
equilibrium position
where the particles don’t move
amplitude
distance between equilibrium and peak
wavelength
distance between two consecutive peaks
describe the properties of a longitudinal wave
-sideways vibration
-longitudinal waves move in parallel, in the same direction as the energy transfer
what are some examples of a longitudinal wave?
sound and primary waves produced by an earthquake
compression
area where particles are close together
rarefaction
area where particles are further apart