Waves Review

Front

What is the definition of a wave?

Back

A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy through space or matter, typically characterized by oscillations.

Front

What are the main types of waves?

Back

The main types of waves are mechanical waves (which require a medium, like sound waves) and electromagnetic waves (which do not require a medium, like light waves).

Front

What is frequency in the context of waves?

Back

Frequency is the number of waves that pass a given point in one second, measured in hertz (Hz).

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

Back

Frequency and wavelength are inversely related; as frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.

Front

What is amplitude in a wave?

Back

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

Front

What is the definition of a medium in wave propagation?

Back

A medium is any substance through which a wave can travel, such as air, water, or solid materials.

Front

What is diffraction in the context of waves?

Back

Diffraction is the bending of waves around obstacles or through openings, which causes the waves to spread out.

Front

What is the formula for calculating wave speed?

Back

Wave speed can be calculated using the formula: Wave Speed = Frequency x Wavelength.

Front

What is the difference between constructive and destructive interference?

Back

Constructive interference occurs when two waves meet and combine to make a larger wave, while destructive interference occurs when they combine to make a smaller wave or cancel each other out.

Front

What is the definition of wavelength?

Back

Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive points that are in phase on a wave, such as crest to crest or trough to trough.