Waves and Optics Flashcards
Definitions in waves and optics
What are progressive waves?
Waves that carry energy from one place to another without transferring material
Define Reflection
The wave is bounced back when it hits a boundary
Define Refraction
The wave changes direction as it enters a different medium as a result of the wave changing speed
Define Diffraction
The wave spreads out as it passes through a gap or around an obstacle
Define Displacement
How far a point on a wave has moved from its undisturbed/equilibrium position
Define Amplitude
The maximum magnitude of displacement of a wave
Define Wavelength
The length of one whole wave oscillation/wave cycle
Define Period
The time take for one complete wave cycle
Define Frequency
The number of whole wave cycles per second
Define Phase
A measurement of the position of a point along the wave cycle
Define Phase Difference
The amount by which one wave lags behind the other
What are the symbol and units of Wavelength
Symbol: λ
Unit: Metres/m
What are the symbol and units for (Time) Period?
Symbol: T
Units: Seconds/s
What are the symbol and the units for Frequency?
Symbol: f
Units: Hertz/Hz (Cycles per second)
Define Transverse Wave
A wave where the displacement of the particles or field is perpendicular to the direction of energy of propagation
