Science - Light and Sound Waves

Term 3, 2025

Amplitude of Sound Waves

Determines the loudness of the sound

High amplitude = loud sound

Low amplitude = quite sound

Frequency of Sound Waves

Determines the pitch of the sound:

High frequency = high sound

Low frequency = low sound

Wavelength of Sound Waves

Determines the frequency:

Long wavelength = low frequency

Short wavelength = high frequency

Longitudinal Waves

Particles move parallel to the waves direction |||

Sound travels in this form.

Transverse Waves

Particles move perpendicular to the waves direction ~~~

Light travels in transverse waves.

The speed of a wave is calculated by…

Frequency x wavelength = speed of wave

Period of a Wave

The time it takes for a wave to go through its full motion once, usually measured in seconds

Light Wave Wavelengths

Distance between the crest of a wave and the next. Determines the colour we see:

Higher wavelength = closer to violet on the spectrum

Lower wavelength = closer to red on the spectrum

Light Wave Amplitudes

Distance between the midline and top of a wave. Determines the intensity of a colour:

Larger amplitude = brighter colour

Smaller amplitude = duller colour

Light Transmission

When light passes through an object.

Light Absorption

When light is transformed into heat inside an object.

Light Reflection

When light bounces off an object.

Transparent definition

Nearly all light is able to pass through - clear image.

Translucent definition

Some light is able to pass through - blurred image.

Opaque

No light is able to pass through.

Diffuse Reflection

When light rays hit a rough surface, they reflect in different directions/scatter (eg uneven rock).

Regular Reflection

When light rays hit a shiny smooth surface, they reflect in a regular pattern allowing us to see a clear image reflected back at us (eg mirrors).

Energy Transformation

The conversion of energy from one form to another.

Energy Transfer

The movement of energy from one place to another; does not have to change form of energy.