Vibrations and Waves

This set of flashcards covers key terms and definitions related to vibrations and waves as discussed in the lecture.

Vibration

A periodic wiggle in time.

Wave

A periodic wiggle in both space and time that extends from one place to another.

Period

The time it takes for one complete to-and-fro swing of a pendulum.

Amplitude

The distance from the midpoint to the crest or trough of a wave.

Wavelength

The distance from the top of one crest to the top of the next crest of a wave.

Frequency

The number of to and fro vibrations occurring in a given time, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Wave Speed

The speed at which a disturbance travels through a medium, calculated as frequency multiplied by wavelength.

Transverse Wave

A wave where the medium vibrates perpendicularly to the direction of energy transfer.

Longitudinal Wave

A wave where the medium vibrates parallel to the direction of energy transfer.

Doppler Effect

An increase or decrease in wave frequency perceived by an observer moving relative to the wave source.

Standing Wave

A wave pattern that results from the interference of two waves traveling in opposite directions.

Node

A region of minimal or zero displacement in a standing wave.

Antinode

A region of maximum displacement in a standing wave.

Wave Interference

Occurs when two or more waves interact with each other at the same place and time.

Constructive Interference

When two crests overlap and produce a wave of increased amplitude.

Destructive Interference

When a crest and trough overlap, reducing or canceling the overall wave amplitude.

Shock Wave

A pattern of overlapping spheres forming a cone from an object traveling faster than the speed of sound.