Topic 5: Waves and Particle Nature of Light

Amplitude

A wave’s maximum displacement from the equilibrium position

Frequency (f) .

The number of complete oscillations passing through a point per second

Period (T)

The time taken for one full oscillation.

Speed (v)

The distance travelled by the wave per unit time.

Wavelength (λ)

The length of one whole oscillation (e.g. the distance between successive peaks/troughs).

Wave equation

Velocity = Frequency x Wavelength

Longitudial

the oscillation of particles is parallel to the direction of energy transfer. ● These are made up of compressions and rarefactions and can’t travel in a vacuum. ● Sound is an example of a longitudinal wave, and they can be demonstrated by pushing a slinky horizontally