Waves & Light Flashcards
Wave
An oscillation accompanied by a transfer of energy
Mechanical wave
An oscillation of matter that transfers energy through a medium.
Medium
A substance through which a wave can pass.
Reflection
The change in direction of a wave at an interface between two different media so that the wave returns into the medium from which it originated.
Refraction
The bending of the path of a wave when it passes from one medium into another.
Diffraction
The ability of a wave to spread as it passes through a small aperture or around a sharp edge in a shallow region.
Interference
When two waves pass through the same region of space at the same time.
Transverse Waves
When the particles in the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave.
Longitudinal Waves
When the particles in the medium move parallel to the direction of propagation of the wave.
Amplitude(A) and Unit
A measurement of the maximum momentary displacement from a position of rest.
Unit is meters (m)
Wavelength (λ) and Unit
The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs.
Crest
It is a point on a wave with the greatest positive value or upward displacement in a cycle.
Trough
It is a point on a wave with the greatest negative value or downward displacement in a cycle.
Frequency (f) and Unit
The number of complete cycles (vibrations/disturbances) in one second.
Period (T) and Unit
The time taken for one complete wave/vibration/cycle to pass a point.
