Physics - waves

Wave Basics + Transverse and Longitudinal waves

Name the key parts of a wave diagram

Explain what the amplitude is

maximum displacement of a point on the wave from the undisturbed point

Explain what the wavelength is

Distance between the same point on two adjacent waves

What is frequency and what is it measured in ?

The number of complete waves passing a certain point per second and it is measured in hertz (Hz)

What is the formula for Period of a wave

T = 1/f

T = period

f = frequency

What is a Transverse wave ?

wave that oscillates perpendicularly to the energy transfered

Types of Transverse waves ?

1. All electromagnetic waves

2. ripples and waves in water

3. a wave on a string

What is a Longitudinal wave ?

A wave that oscillates parallel to the direction of energy transferred

Type of Longitudinal waves

1. sound waves

2. shock waves

What is the formula for Wave speed

Wave speed = Frequency x Wavelength