Waves Flashcards
How are longitudinal waves different to transverse waves?
In longitudinal waves, the direction of energy transfer is parallel to the oscillations. However, in a transverse wave, it is perpendicular. Longitudinal waves also require a medium, as they transfer energy via the vibration of particles, while transverse waves do not.
How is it possible for the Sun’s rays to reach Earth if sound waves can’t travel through space?
The Sun’s rays can travel through the vacuum of space because light waves are transverse, meaning that they do not require a medium. However, sound waves are longitudinal and therefore they need particles to vibrate in order to transfer energy.
What do all waves have in common?
They all transfer energy from one point to another
What are compressions and rarefactions?
Compressions are regions in a longitudinal wave where the particles are closer together, while rarefactions are regions where they are dispersed
How could you estimate a sound wave’s pitch and volume by looking at a visual representation of one?
You can estimate a wave’s pitch by its frequency; if the oscillations are compressed, then the sound produced will be high, and vice versa. You can tell a wave’s volume by the amplitude; if the amplitude is more considerable, then the sound will be louder.
What are oscillations?
Movements up and down in a wave
Give an example of a longitudinal wave
Sound waves, the primary waves of an earthquake, ultrasound, the vibration of a spring
Give an example of a transverse wave
Electromagnetic waves, ripples of water, seismic waves, Mexican waves, vibrations of a guitar or ukulele string
When are waves constructive and destructive?
Constructive waves occur when two identical waves overlap - the wave will be augmented. Destructive waves occur when two opposite waves overlap - the wave will be made flat
Which state of matter do sound waves travel best through and why?
Solids because the particles are closest together, which means that vibrations can be more efficiently passed on
