waves and wave properties

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another without transferring matter.

Front

What are the two main types of waves?

Back

The two main types of waves are mechanical waves (require a medium) and electromagnetic waves (do not require a medium).

Front

What is wavelength?

Back

Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive points that are in phase on a wave, such as crest to crest or trough to trough.

Front

What is frequency?

Back

Frequency is the number of waves that pass a given point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Front

What is amplitude?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum displacement of points on a wave from its rest position, indicating the wave's energy.

Front

What is a compression in a longitudinal wave?

Back

A compression is a region in a longitudinal wave where particles are packed closely together.

Front

What is a rarefaction in a longitudinal wave?

Back

A rarefaction is a region in a longitudinal wave where particles are spread apart.

Front

How do you calculate wave speed?

Back

Wave speed can be calculated using the formula: Speed = Frequency x Wavelength.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

Back

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

Front

What is a crest in a wave?

Back

A crest is the highest point of a wave.