Waves Flashcards
Constructive interference
The superposition effect of two waves that are in phase, producing a larger amplitude resultant wave.
Destructive interference
The superposition effect of two waves that are out of phase, producing a smaller amplitude resultant wave.
What’s a stationary/standing wave?
One that consists of oscillations in a fixed space, with regions of significant oscillation and regions with zero oscillation, which remain in the same location at all times. (Set up by continuous waves of the same frequency and similar amplitude travelling in opposite directions)
Wavefronts
Lines connecting points on the wave that are at exactly the same phase position (running perpendicular to the direction that the wave travels)
Amplitude
The maximum magnitude of the displacement
Frequency
The number of cycles (vibrations) per second passing a given point (f, hertz)
Period
The time taken for a whole cycle (vibration) to complete (T, seconds)
Wavelength
The length of one whole wave cycle (crest to crest or trough to trough)
Coherence
When two waves have the same wavelength and frequency and a fixed phase difference between them (may be produced from the same source) + they don’t have to be in phase
Path difference
The amount by which the path travelled by one wave is longer than the path travelled by the other wave
Superposition
When two or more waves cross and the resultant displacement equals the vector sum of the individual displacements
Interference
When two waves meet, they will combine to give a resultant wave whose amplitude (or intensity) may be greater or less than the original two waves
Phase
The position of a point in time on a waveform cycle
Focal length
The distance from the lens or mirror to the focal point
Real image
Formed when light rays from a point on an object are made to pass through another point in space
