Waves Flashcards
Frequency
Frequency is the number of occurrences of a repeating event per unit of time.
Period
A time period (denoted by T)is the time needed for one complete cycle of vibration to pass in a given point.
Wavelength
The distance between successive crests of a wave
Crest
reach the top of (something such as a hill or wave).
Trough
a long, narrow open container for animals to eat or drink out of.
Medium
the intervening substance through which impressions are conveyed to the senses or a force acts on objects at a distance.
Amplitude
height or “strength” of a wave
Longitudinal wave
a wave that vibrates in the same direction as it travels; also called a compression wave
Electromagnetic system
A system of circuits and conductors used to carry electricity.
Transverse wave
a wave vibrating at right angles to the direction of its propagation.
Compression
the reduction in volume (causing an increase in pressure) of the fuel mixture in an internal combustion engine before ignition.
Rarefaction
diminution in the density of something, especially air or a gas.
Reflection
to strike a surface and bounce back in the opposite direction (related word: reflection)
Refraction
change in direction of propagation of any wave as a result of its traveling at different speeds at different points along the wave front.
Diffraction
the process by which a beam of light or other system of waves is spread out as a result of passing through a narrow aperture or across an edge, typically accompanied by interference between the wave forms produced.
