Sound Waves and Resonance

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to sound waves, resonance, and wave phenomena discussed in the lecture.

Standing Waves

Waves that remain stationary in a medium, characterized by nodes and antinodes.

Node

A point in a standing wave where there is minimal or no movement.

Antinode

A point in a standing wave where the amplitude is at its maximum movement.

Longitudinal Wave

A wave in which the motion of the medium is parallel to the direction of the wave propagation.

Transverse Wave

A wave in which the motion of the medium is perpendicular to the direction of the wave propagation.

Resonance

The phenomenon that occurs when a system is driven at its natural frequency, resulting in a significant increase in amplitude.

Speed of Sound

The distance that sound waves travel through a medium per unit of time, dependent on temperature and medium density.

Doppler Effect

The change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer who is moving relative to the wave source.

Destructive Interference

When two waves completely cancel each other out, resulting in a wave with zero amplitude.

Constructive Interference

When two waves combine to form a wave with a larger amplitude.

Intensity of Sound

The power per unit area carried by a sound wave, typically measured in watts per meter squared.

Decibels (dB)

A logarithmic unit used to express the intensity of sound, relative to a reference level.

Pressure Waves

Another term for longitudinal sound waves, emphasizing the compressive and expansive nature of sound propagation.

Elasticity

The ability of a material to return to its original shape after being deformed, impacting the speed of sound in solids.

Frequency

The number of complete oscillations a wave makes per unit of time, typically measured in hertz (Hz).