waves Flashcards
what is a wave?
disturbances of the particles within a substance that vibrate and transfer energy to a detestation without matter being transferred.
what is electromagnetic waves?
Electromagnetic waves are capable of transmitting energy through a vacuum.
how are electromagnetic waves produced?
Electromagnetic waves are produced by the
vibration of charged particles.
what are mechanical waves?
Mechanical waves can’t transmit energy through a
vacuum, they require a medium in order to transport energy.
example of electromagnetic waves are
heat and light
example of mechanical waves
sound
transverse wave motion.
are vibrations that are at 90° to the direction of wave travel. Can travel through a vacuum.
example of transverse motion.
light and string
Longitudinal wave motion
are vibrations that are along the same direction as wave travel. needs to travel through a medium.
example of longitudinal motion
like a slinky
wave amplitude.
Amplitude: The height of the wave from its equilibrium position.
Wave frequency:(time)
Number of peaks or troughs that
pass at given point in time (usually 1 second)
Wave period:(crest)
The wave period is the time for two consecutive crests to pass a fixed point.
Wavelength:
The distance between a point on one wave and the same point on the next wave.
equation for wave speed?
wave speed(m/s) = frequency(Hz) x wavelength(m)
