Waves Review

Front

What is wavelength in the context of waves?

Back

Wavelength is the distance between successive crests or troughs of a wave, typically measured in meters.

Front

How does frequency relate to energy in waves?

Back

The higher the frequency of a wave, the higher its energy.

Front

What are the two main characteristics by which waves on the electromagnetic spectrum are organized?

Back

Waves on the electromagnetic spectrum are organized by frequency and wavelength.

Front

What determines the pitch of a sound?

Back

The pitch of a sound is determined by the frequency of the sound waves.

Front

What is reflection in terms of light waves?

Back

Reflection is the bouncing back of light waves when they hit a smooth and shiny surface.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in waves?

Back

Frequency and wavelength are inversely related; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases.

Front

What is the speed of light in a vacuum?

Back

The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (or about 186,282 miles per second).

Front

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

Back

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, organized by frequency and wavelength.

Front

What is the difference between transverse and longitudinal waves?

Back

Transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave travel, while longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to the direction of wave travel.

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Refraction is the bending of light waves as they pass from one medium to another, due to a change in speed.