Waves — Basics & Properties

What is a wave?

A wave transfers energy through a medium or a vacuum without transferring matter.

What is the main difference between transverse and longitudinal waves?

Transverse waves oscillate perpendicular (90°) to the direction of movement; longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to the direction of movement.

Give two examples of transverse waves.

Light, radio waves, and water ripples.

Give an example of a longitudinal wave.

Sound waves.

What is amplitude?

The maximum displacement or the highest point of a wave.

What is wavelength (λ)?

The distance between two consecutive identical points on a wave.

What is frequency (f)?

The number of waves passing a point each second.

What is the time period (T)?

The time taken for one complete wave to pass a point.

What is oscillation?

A repetitive back-and-forth motion (vibration).

What is compression?

A region where particles are pushed close together, creating high pressure and density.

What is rarefaction (expansion)?

A region where particles are spread further apart than average.

What equation links wave speed, frequency, and wavelength?

v=f×λ

What is the formula for the time period in terms of frequency?

𝑇=1/𝑓

What is the speed of light?

3.0×10.8