Wave Parts Flashcard

Front

What is a compression in a sound wave?

Back

A compression is an area in a sound wave where the particles are close together, resulting in increased pressure.

Front

What is a rarefaction in a sound wave?

Back

A rarefaction is an area in a sound wave where the particles are spread apart, resulting in decreased pressure.

Front

What is the definition of a transverse wave?

Back

A transverse wave is a wave in which the particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.

Front

What is the definition of a longitudinal wave?

Back

A longitudinal wave is a wave in which the particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation.

Front

What is amplitude in the context of waves?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum displacement of points on a wave from its rest position, indicating the wave's energy.

Front

What is the difference between electromagnetic waves and sound waves?

Back

Electromagnetic waves do not require a medium to travel, while sound waves require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to propagate.

Front

What are the main characteristics of sound waves?

Back

Sound waves are mechanical, longitudinal, require a medium, and consist of compressions and rarefactions.

Front

What is the speed of sound in air at room temperature?

Back

The speed of sound in air at room temperature (20°C) is approximately 343 meters per second.

Front

What happens to the speed of sound as the temperature increases?

Back

As the temperature increases, the speed of sound in air also increases due to the increased energy of the air molecules.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in waves?

Back

The frequency and wavelength of a wave are inversely related; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.