Mechanical and Electromagnetic Waves Final Exam Review

Front

What is amplitude in the context of waves?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum distance that the wave's particles move from their rest position. It is a measure of the energy of the wave.

Front

What is the primary requirement for sound waves to travel?

Back

Sound waves require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel through.

Front

How is wavelength defined in wave physics?

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 distinguishes electromagnetic waves from mechanical waves?

Back

Electromagnetic waves do not require a medium to travel; they can propagate through a vacuum.

Front

What is the formula for calculating the speed of a wave?

Back

The speed of a wave (v) is calculated using the formula: v = frequency (f) × wavelength (λ).

Front

What is frequency in the context of waves?

Back

Frequency is the number of complete wave cycles that pass a point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Front

What happens to the amplitude of a wave as it travels through a medium?

Back

The amplitude of a wave may decrease as it travels through a medium due to energy loss, but it can also remain constant depending on the medium.

Front

What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?

Back

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

Front

What is a crest in a wave?

Back

A crest is the highest point of a wave, representing the maximum displacement of the wave from its rest position.

Front

What is a trough in a wave?

Back

A trough is the lowest point of a wave, representing the minimum displacement of the wave from its rest position.