Physics Unit C

What happens to the central maximum when the slid width increases?

Decreases

What happens to the intensity when the slid width increases?

Increases

What happens to the intensity when the central maximum decreases?

Increases

When are antinodes formed?

When waves interfere fully constructively

When are nodes formed?

When waves interfere fully destructively

What is antiphase?

Two waves in direct opposition, separated by a phase difference of 180 degrees (half a wavelength)

Resonance

Large increase in oscillation amplitude that occurs when a periodic external driving force matches the natural frequency of a system, resulting in the most efficient transfer of energy

Diffraction

The spreading out of waves as they pass through an aperture (a gap or opening) or around a barrier (an obstacle)

Refraction

Bending of a wave as it passes from one medium into another, which happens because the wave changes its speed

Interference

Effect observed due to the superposition of two or more overlapping waves

Polarisation

Restriction of a transverse wave’s oscillations to a single plane vibrating perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer

Damping

Gradual reduction in the amplitude and energy of an oscillating system over time, caused by resistive forces (such as friction, drag, or air resistance) that dissipate energy from the system

Longitudinal wave

A wave in which the particles of the medium oscillate (vibrate) parallel to the direction of wave propagation (energy transfer)

Transverse wave

A wave in which the oscillations (or vibrations) are perpendicular (at 90° or right angles) to the direction of wave motion and energy transfer