Waves

Question 1

frequency

Answer 1

Definition: the number of cycles a wave completes in a period of time; the number of times something happens in a period of time

Question 2

period

Answer 2

Definition: is the time needed for one complete cycle of vibration to pass in a given point

Question 3

wavelength

Answer 3

Definition: the distance between one peak and the next on a wave

Question 4

crest

Answer 4

Definition: the highest point of a wave

Question 5

trough

Answer 5

Definition: the lowest point of a wave

Question 6

medium

Answer 6

Definition: matter in which a mechanical wave travels through

Question 7

amplitude

Answer 7

Definition: height or “strength” of a wave

Question 8

longitudinal wave

Answer 8

Definition: a wave that vibrates in the same direction as it travels; also called a compression wave

Question 9

electromagnetic spectrum

Answer 9

Definition: the range of wavelengths and frequencies of electromagnetic waves

Question 10

transverse wave

Answer 10

Definition: a wave in which travels perpendicular to the direction of the disturbance

Question 11

compression

Answer 11

Definition: the point in a longitudinal wave where the matter is closer together

Question 12

rarefaction

Answer 12

Definition: the point in a longitudinal wave where the matter is spaced farther apart

Question 13

reflection

Answer 13

Definition: to strike a surface and bounce back in the opposite direction

Question 14

refraction

Answer 14

Definition: is the change in direction of waves that occurs when waves travel from one medium to another

Question 15

diffraction

Answer 15

Definition: the bending of waves around the corners of an obstacle or aperture into the region of geometrical shadow of the obstacle