waves

Define the following terms:

• Wave: a disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another

• Wavelength: Length between crest to crest or trough to trough.

• Period: Time taken to complete one cycle.

• Frequency: Number of cycles per second.

• Equilibrium: Resting position when no wave is present.

• Amplitude: Height from equilibrium to crest or trough.

• Node: Point of no movement on a wave.

• Antinode: Point of maximum movement.

Compare and Contrast Transverse and Longitudinal Waves:

• Transverse Waves: Operate in two dimensions and require a medium. Examples: wave pool, light wave.

• Longitudinal Waves: Operate in one dimension. Examples: sound wave, compressed spring.

Mechanical Drive Demonstration:

• The amplitude of the wave controls volume; higher amplitude = louder sound.

• The frequency determines pitch; higher frequency = higher pitch.

When frequency increased, nodes and antinodes increased, but amplitude decreased because energy was distributed across the waves.