Wave Properties and Behaviors Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering wave reflection, refraction, diffraction, and wave speed across different water depths based on the lecture notes.

Reflection of Waves

The process where waves bounce off a plane surface, changing direction while maintaining the same speed, frequency, and wavelength.

Refraction of Waves

The process occurring when waves travel from one material or medium into another (such as light from air into water or water moving between different depths), causing a change in wave speed, direction, and wavelength.

Diffraction of Waves

The spreading out or bending of waves as they pass through a narrow gap, changing direction and shape (straight to circular) without changing speed or wavelength.

Deep Water Waves

Water waves traveling in deep water that move faster and have a larger spacing (wavelength) between wavefronts.

Shallow Water Waves

Water waves traveling in shallow water that move slower and have a smaller spacing (wavelength) between wavefronts.

Wave Equation

The mathematical relationship $v = f \lambda$, showing that wave speed ($v$) is equal to frequency ($f$) multiplied by wavelength ($\lambda$).

Deepest Region in a Ripple Pool

The area where wavefronts are spaced farthest apart (biggest space), indicating the highest wave speed in deep water.

Water Wave Refraction Diagram

A visual representation showing wavefronts changing direction and decreasing in speed/spacing when transitioning from region 1 (deep water) to region 2 (shallow water).