Types of Waves
A repeating disturbance that transfers energy through matter or space.
What is a wave?
What is the highest point of a transverse wave called?
Crest)
What is the law of reflection? Angle of incidence =
= angle of reflection
Give an example of a transverse wave
Light wave or water wave
Does a wave move a boat forward or just move energy?
Only energy is transferred
What type of wave requires a medium to travel?
Mechanical wave
What is the formula to calculate wave speed?
Speed = Frequency × Wavelength
What happens to a wave during refraction?
It bends when changing speed across media
Give an example of a longitudinal wave
Sound wave
If a wave slows down but frequency stays the same, what happens to the wavelength?
It shortens.
How does a transverse wave move the medium?
Perpendicular to wave direction
How are frequency and wavelength related?
Higher frequency = shorter wavelength
What is diffraction?
Waves bending around obstacles.
What type of wave is used in microwave ovens?
Electromagnetic wave
What causes a mirage on a hot road?
Refraction due to temperature differences.
How do longitudinal waves move?
Parallel to wave direction
If a wave has a frequency of 20 Hz and travels at 340 m/s, what is its wavelength?
17 m
What type of interference occurs when two waves combine to form a larger wave?
Constructive interference
What phenomenon makes a siren sound different as it moves?
Doppler Effect
How can one tuning fork make another vibrate?
Through resonance — matching natural frequency.
What makes electromagnetic waves different from mechanical waves?
They do not require a medium
What is amplitude and what does it represent?
The height of a wave; it shows energy level
What is resonance?
Vibration of an object at its natural frequency due to absorbing energy
Which waves in the electromagnetic spectrum have the highest energy?
Gamma rays
In a concert hall, sound bends around columns. Is this refraction or diffraction?
Diffraction