Waves Motion

Wave motion

The transfer of energy without matter (no matter movement, but just energy transformation).

Mechanical waves

Waves that require a medium (material through which the wave is traveling) to travel through (e.g., sound).

Non-mechanical waves

Waves that do not require a medium to travel (e.g., light).

Transverse wave

A type of wave where particles vibrate at right angles to the direction of the wave's motion (e.g., light).

Longitudinal wave

A type of wave where particles vibrate in the same direction as the wave's motion (e.g., sound).

Frequency (f)

How many waves are produced each second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Wavelength (λ)

The distance between two successive waves, measured in meters (m).

Amplitude

The maximum distance a wave extends from the middle (equilibrium position).

Crest

The maximum amplitude above the middle position in a wave.

Trough

The maximum amplitude below the middle position in a wave.

Speed of waves (V)

How fast the wave moves, which changes with the medium.

Why can’t we hear the sun?

Because sound doesn't travel through empty space.

Sound in water vs. air

Sound travels faster in water than in air because water is denser.

Effect of medium on sound speed

Mechanical waves travel faster through denser materials and at higher temperatures.