Physics: Oscillations and Waves

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to oscillations and waves discussed in the physics lecture.

Amplitude

The maximum distance from the equilibrium position that an object moves during oscillation.

Equilibrium Position

The position where a system naturally wants to be, with no net forces acting on it.

Cycle

One complete movement from a starting point and back to that same point in oscillations.

Period (T)

The amount of time it takes to complete one full cycle of oscillation.

Frequency (f)

The number of complete cycles that occur in one second, measured in hertz (Hz).

Wavelength (λ)

The distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs in a wave, typically measured in meters.

Transverse Waves

Waves where the oscillation is perpendicular to the direction of propagation.

Longitudinal Waves

Waves where the oscillation is in the same direction as the propagation of the wave.

Kinetic Energy

The energy an object has due to its motion; important in the context of mass moving during oscillation.

Potential Energy

Energy stored in an object due to its position in a force field, such as the energy stored in a stretched or compressed spring.

Node

A point in a standing wave where there is no movement; a point of minimum amplitude.

Antinode

The points in a standing wave where the amplitude is maximum.

Standing Waves

Waves that remain in a constant position and do not travel, often formed by the overlap of two waves traveling in opposite directions.

Natural Resonant Frequency

The frequency at which an object or system naturally oscillates when not driven by an external force.

Friction and Heat Loss

Dissipative forces that cause a decrease in the energy of a system during oscillations or wave propagation.