2.1 - Waves

Transverse waves

vibrations perpendicular to direction of motion of the wave

Wave equation

v = fλ

Period definition

T = 1/f

Longitudinal waves

vibrations parallel to direction of motion of the wave

Polarised waves

lie in only one plane

Examples of transverse waves

light/EM radiation, water surface

Examples of longitudinal waves

sound, ultrasound, spring

Polaroid

material that transmits light oscillating in one plane

Frequency definition

oscillations per second

Wavelength definition

distance between neighbouring crests/troughts

Amplitude definition

maximum displacement from rest position

Wavefront definition

line joining all points in same state of vibration

Wave velocity

distance wave moves in unit time

Frequency equation

f = 1/t

Electromagnetic spectrum in increasing wavelength

radio waves, microwaves, IR, visible light, UV, X-rays, gamma rays

wavelength of violet and red light

400nm and 700nm