Waves Flashcards
What three thins do waves have?
Amplitude,
Wavelength,
Frequency.
What is frequency and whats it measured in?
Its the number of complete waves passing a certain point per second.
Most waves a transverse give some examples
They have sideways vibrations,
Light and all other electromagnetic waves.
Ripples on water,
A slinky wiggled up and down.
Describe the vibrations of transverse waves
In transverse waves the vibrations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer of the wave.
Examples of longitudinal waves
Sound waves,
Ultrasound,
Shock waves
Describe the vibrations of longitudinal waves
In longitudinal waves, the vibrations are parallel to the direction of energy transfer of the wave.
What is the equation for wave speed?
wave speed = frequency x wavelength.
What is wave speed, frequency and wavelength measured in?
Speed = m/s Frequency = Hz Wavelength = m
Describe some properties of waves
They can be reflected, refracted and diffracted.
How does reflection allow us to see things?
Light bounces of objects into our eyes.
What is the normal?
An imaginary line thats perpendicular to the surface at the point of incidence.
What is the law of reflection
Angle of incidence = Angle of refraction
What is refraction?
When they go through a new material but change direction.
What is diffraction?
When the waves bend around obstacles, causing the waves to spread out.
What causes maximum diffraction?
When the gap is the same as the wavelength.
