Cambridge O Level Physics: General Properties of Waves

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and definitions related to the general properties of waves in Cambridge O Level Physics.

Wave

A disturbance that transfers energy and information, typically described as oscillations or vibrations.

Crest

The highest point on a wave above the equilibrium or rest position.

Trough

The lowest point on a wave below the equilibrium or rest position.

Amplitude

The maximum displacement from the undisturbed position, measured in metres (m).

Wavelength

The distance from one point on a wave to the same point on the next wave, given the symbol λ (lambda) and measured in metres (m).

Frequency

The number of waves passing a point in a second, given the symbol f and measured in Hertz (Hz).

Wave Speed

The speed at which energy is transferred through a medium, calculated using the formula: wave speed = frequency × wavelength.

Ripple Tank

An experimental setup used to demonstrate wave properties such as reflection, refraction, and diffraction.

Transverse Wave

A wave where the points along its length vibrate at 90 degrees to the direction of energy transfer, observed in ropes and on the surface of liquids.

Longitudinal Wave

A wave where points along its length vibrate parallel to the direction of energy transfer, typically seen in sound waves.

Reflection

The bouncing back of waves when they hit a barrier, following the law that the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection.

Refraction

The change in direction of a wave as it passes from one medium to another due to a change in speed.

Diffraction

The spreading out of waves when they pass through a narrow gap or around an obstacle.

Wavefront

A surface over which an oscillation phase is constant, typically visualized as lines representing individual waves moving through space.