Waves sound & EM Spectrum Flashcards
What are waves
Waves transfer energy from one place to another
What are Transverse waves
The vibrations occur perpendicular to the direction of the waves
Examples of Transverse waves
Light or any EM Wave (Infra Red, Radio, Microwave)
Water Waves
What are Longitudinal waves
The vibrant occur parallel to the wave direction
Examples of Longitudinal waves
Sound
Ultrasound
What is the Amplitude of the wave
Symbol + Unit
The Maximum displacement from the Equilibrium position
A
Metres
What is the Wavelength of the wave
Symbol + Unit
Distance from one point to the next identical point
Symbol (Lambda) λ
Unit - Metres
How to calculate Wavelength
Wavelength λ = Distance
———————–
Number of Waves
What is Frequency
Symbol + Unit
The number of vibrations per second
Symbol - f
Unit : Hz
How to calculate Frequency
f = no of waves
—————–
time
What is the Period of a wave
The time taken for one complete wavelength
Symbol: T
Unit: S
Equation for frequency
f = 1 frequency = 1 divided by period
—–
t
What is the Speed (VELOCITY) of a wave
Symbol
Unit
The distance the wave travels per second
Symbol: V
Unit: m/s
How to workout the Velocity
Velocity = wavelength x frequency
Electromagnetic Waves, Uses & Dangers
Ultra Violet Light -
Visible Light -
Infrared Light -
Microwaves -
Radio Waves -
Ultra Violet Light - Certain wave lengths can damage cells disrupting DNA and leading to skin cancer. It can make Vitamin D
Visible Light - Intense visible light can damage the eyes. Used to see things and Photography
Infrared Light - Felt as heat and causes burns. Used in remote controls and detecting intruders
Microwaves - Causes internal heating of body tissues. Used for fast cooking food
Radio Waves - Large doses of radio waves can cause cancer. Used for communication from radio to television.
