Wave Concepts

Front

Wave

Back

A repeating movement (also called a disturbance) that transfers energy from place to place. Waves do not transport matter (solids, liquids, gases). Waves are produced by vibration.

Front

Medium

Back

The type of matter that a wave travels through. This could be a solid, liquid, gas, or a combination.

Front

Crest

Back

The high point on the wave.

Front

Amplitude

Back

The measurement from the center of the wave to the trough or from the center of the wave to the crest. The center of the wave is also known as its resting position.

Front

Frequency

Back

The number of waves that pass a fixed point in a second.

Front

Disturbance

Back

Another term for the repeating movement in a wave.

Front

Low frequency sound waves

Back

Sound waves with a low frequency produce low-pitched sounds.

Front

Light propagation

Back

Light does not require a medium for propagation (movement).

Front

Light travel path

Back

Light travels in a straight path except when traveling through sources of different materials.

Front

Reflection definition

Back

Reflection occurs when a wave bounces off and heads in a different direction.