Waves and Fields Flashcards
Wave
A disturbance or oscillation that travels through space or matter and transfers energy
Amplitude
Height of the wave. This determines the amount of energy the wave carries
Wavelength
Distance from one crest or trough to another
Frequency
How many waves pass a point in a certain time
Medium
A substance that can carry waves
Effects of Mediums
Waves are absorbed, reflected, or travel through
Types of Waves
Mechanical - needs a medium, Electromagnetic - does not need a medium
Energy
Transferred with a wave. Matter is not transferred
Examples of Mechanical waves
Ocean, seismic, sound
Examples of Electromagnetic waves
Gamma rays , X-ray, Ultraviolet, Visible Light, Infrared, Microwaves, Radio
Spectroscope
Device used to break down the visible spectrum of light
Radiation
“Invisible light” that travels through space
Colors of Visible Light
Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet
Long Wavelength Electromagnetic Waves
Infrared, Microwave, Radio
Short Wavelength Electromagnetic Waves
Ultraviolet, Gamma, X-rays