Introduction to Waves

Flashcards covering key concepts and definitions related to waves.

Wave Motion

The movement of a wave going to the right without transferring matter.

Periodic Motion

Motion that happens repeatedly.

No Net Motion

A situation where the wave does not go anywhere; it stays in place.

Kinetic Energy

Energy that waves use, which is associated with the motion of particles.

Mechanical Waves

Waves that require a medium to exist and involve oscillations of particles.

Electromagnetic Waves

Waves that consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields and do not need a medium.

Longitudinal Waves

Waves where oscillations are parallel to the direction of wave motion.

Push and pull less common, vibrates side to side

Transverse Waves

Waves where oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of wave motion.

Moves up and down most common.

Amplitude

The maximum displacement of a vibrating particle.

Wavelength

The length of one complete wave.

Frequency

The number of waves passing through a fixed point per second.

Cycle

One full crest and one full trough of a wave.

Velocity Equation

Velocity can be calculated by (Distance/Time) or (Frequency * Wavelength) or (Wavelength/Time)

Wavelength

The length of one complete wave, calculated as (Distance/# Waves).

Frequency

The number of waves passing through a fixed point per second, calculated as (# Waves/ Time).

Period

The duration measured in seconds for one complete wave to pass a fixed point, calculated as (Time/#