Wave Vocabulary- SHMS

A set of practice flashcards defining key vocabulary terms related to waves, based on the provide lecture notes.

Absorption

the transfer of energy to particles of matter.

Amplitude

The wave height, also a measure of loudness of a sound. The larger the amplitude, the louder the sound.

Constructive Interference

When a crest of one wave and the crest of another wave overlap. Creates a larger amplitude

Destructive Interference

when a crest of one wave and a trough of another wave overlap, results in a smaller (or no) amplitude.

Diffraction

the bending of a wave around a barrier (like a building) or through an opening (like an open door).

Reflection

a wave bounces off of a surface at the same angle as which it hits.

Frequency

the number of waves that pass a point in a certain amount of time. Measured in hertz ($Hz$).

Longitudinal Wave

the particles of the medium vibrate along the path that the wave takes; requires a medium to move through

Medium

a substance through which a wave can travel; matter

Radiation

the emission of energy in the form of an electromagnetic wave. Not necessarily a bad thing

Refraction

the bending of light as it passes, at an angle, from medium to another

Transmission

the passing of light through matter (without absorbing it)

Transverse Wave

particles moves perpendicular (up and down) to the wave's motion (left and right).

Scattering

the release of energy by particles that have absorbed it.

Wave

a disturbance that carries energy

Wavelength

The distance on one point of a wave to the same point on the next wave, for instance; crest to crest or trough to trough.