Waves Unit Flashcards
Frequency
the number of cycles a wave completes in a period of time; the number of times something happens in a period of time
Period
The time required for two successive wave crests to pass a fixed point, or the time for a single wave crest to travel a distance equal to the length of the wave.
Wave Length
the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave.
Crest
the highest point of a wave
Trough
A trough is the opposite of a crest, so the minimum or lowest point
Medium
The medium is the material energy is transmitted through like sounds is transmitted through air so the air is the medium
Amplitude
height or “strength” of a wave
Longitudinal wave
a wave that vibrates in the same direction as it travels; also called a compression wave
Electromagnetic spectrum
the range of wavelengths or frequencies over which electromagnetic radiation extends.
Transverse waves
a wave vibrating at right angles to the direction of its propagation.
Compression
A compression is a region in a longitudinal wave where the particles are closest together.
Rarefaction
A rarefaction is a region in a longitudinal wave where the particles are furthest apart.
Reflection
to strike a surface and bounce back in the opposite direction
Refraction
change in direction of propagation of any wave as a result of its traveling at different speeds at different points along the wave front.
Diffraction
the process by which a beam of light or other system of waves is spread out as a result of passing through a narrow aperture or across an edge, typically accompanied by interference between the wave forms produced.
