Waves And Quantum Phenomia Flashcards
What is the definition of a wave?
A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy through matter or space.
True or False: Waves can only travel through solids.
False
What is the difference between transverse and longitudinal waves?
In transverse waves, oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of wave travel; in longitudinal waves, oscillations are parallel.
Fill in the blank: The wavelength is the distance between two consecutive __________.
crests or troughs
What is the formula for wave speed?
Wave speed = frequency × wavelength
What unit is frequency measured in?
Hertz (Hz)
True or False: The amplitude of a wave is related to its energy.
True
What is the term for the highest point of a wave?
Crest
What is the term for the lowest point of a wave?
Trough
What is the principle of superposition?
The principle of superposition states that when two or more waves overlap, the resultant displacement is the sum of the individual displacements.
Fill in the blank: The frequency of a wave is the number of __________ per second.
cycles
What phenomenon occurs when waves bend around obstacles?
Diffraction
What is constructive interference?
Constructive interference occurs when two waves meet in phase, resulting in a wave with greater amplitude.
What is destructive interference?
Destructive interference occurs when two waves meet out of phase, resulting in a wave with reduced amplitude.
What is the Doppler effect?
The Doppler effect is the change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer moving relative to the wave source.
True or False: Sound waves are an example of transverse waves.
False
What is the speed of sound in air at room temperature?
Approximately 343 meters per second.
What are standing waves?
Standing waves are waves that remain in a constant position, formed by the interference of two waves traveling in opposite directions.
Fill in the blank: The distance from the rest position to the crest of a wave is called the __________.
amplitude
What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength for a given wave speed?
Frequency is inversely proportional to wavelength.
What is a wavefront?
A wavefront is a surface over which an oscillation has a constant phase.
What is the term for the time taken for one complete wave cycle to pass a point?
Period
What is refraction?
Refraction is the bending of a wave as it passes from one medium to another due to a change in speed.
What is the term for the ratio of the speed of light in a vacuum to the speed of light in a medium?
Refractive index
