Physical Science - Waves Review

Front

What is the amplitude of a wave?

Back

The amplitude is the maximum distance that the particles of a medium move from their rest position when a wave passes through. It indicates the intensity or power of the wave.

Front

What causes mechanical waves to form?

Back

Mechanical waves are created when a source of energy causes a medium to vibrate.

Front

Why can't sound travel through a vacuum?

Back

Sound cannot travel through a vacuum because a vacuum has no particles to transmit the sound waves.

Front

What is a wavelength?

Back

Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs in a wave.

Front

What is a crest in a wave?

Back

A crest is the highest point of a wave.

Front

What is a trough in a wave?

Back

A trough is the lowest point of a wave.

Front

What is compression in a wave?

Back

Compression is the region in a longitudinal wave where the particles are closest together.

Front

What is rarefaction in a wave?

Back

Rarefaction is the region in a longitudinal wave where the particles are spread apart.

Front

How do mechanical waves propagate energy?

Back

Mechanical waves propagate energy as particles of a medium vibrate.

Front

What is the difference between transverse and longitudinal waves?

Back

In transverse waves, particles move perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation, while in longitudinal waves, particles move parallel to the direction of wave propagation.