physics waves and radiation

What is a transverse wave?

A wave where particles vibrate at a right angle (perpendicular). The particles only move up and down, but the energy flows horizontally sideways.

Give 3 examples of transverse waves.

Water ripples, light (electromagnetic waves), guitar strings, or seismic S-waves.

What is the definition of Amplitude (\(A\))?

The maximum displacement of a wave from its rest position to a crest or trough (measured in metres).

What is the definition of Wavelength (\(\lambda \))?

The distance from one point on a wave to the exact same point on the next wave (e.g., crest to crest).

What is the definition of Frequency (f) and its unit?

The number of complete waves passing a point per second. Measured in Hertz (Hz).

What is the definition of Period (T)?

The time taken for one complete wave to pass a point (measured in seconds). Formula: \(T = 1 \div f\).

What is the standard Wave Equation?

(v = f x lambda) (Wave speed = frequency x wavelength).

In the wave equation (v = f x lambda), what does each symbol stand for?

• (v) = Wave speed

• (f) = Frequency

• (lambda) = Wavelength

What are the standard metric units for Wave Speed (v), Frequency (f), and Wavelength (lambda)?

• Speed = meters per second (m/s)

• Frequency = Hertz (Hz)

• Wavelength = meters (m)

What is the "Crest-to-Trough" test trap?

If a question gives you the total vertical height from the very top (crest) to the very bottom (trough), you must divide it by 2 to find the actual amplitude.

How do you rearrange the wave equation to solve for Wavelength (lambda)?

(lambda = v/f (Wavelength = Speed / Frequency)

How do you rearrange the wave equation to solve for Frequency (f)?

f = v / lambda (Frequency = Speed / Wavelength)

What is the anatomy definition of a Crest vs. a Trough?

• Crest: The highest point of maximum displacement.

• Trough: The lowest point of maximum displacement.

What is the formula to calculate Frequency / (f) if you are given a total number of waves and a total time?

f = Number of Waves over Time (seconds)(fraction)

What formula connects Wave Period (T) and Frequency (f)?

f = f=1 over T and T = 1 over f

Do the individual particles of a medium travel along with a transverse wave across the room?

No. Only the energy travels forward. The particles themselves only bob up and down locally at a right angle.