Waves

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another without transferring matter.

Front

What are the two main types of waves?

Back

The two main types of waves are mechanical waves and electromagnetic waves.

Front

What is a compressional wave?

Back

A compressional wave, also known as a longitudinal wave, is a wave in which the particles of the medium move parallel to the direction of the wave's travel.

Front

What is a rarefaction in a compressional wave?

Back

Rarefaction is the part of a compressional wave where the particles are spaced further apart.

Front

What is a compression in a compressional wave?

Back

Compression is the part of a compressional wave where the particles are crowded together.

Front

What is an example of a longitudinal wave?

Back

An example of a longitudinal wave is a sound wave.

Front

What is destructive interference?

Back

Destructive interference occurs when two waves meet and affect each other in a negative way, resulting in a smaller amplitude.

Front

What is constructive interference?

Back

Constructive interference occurs when two wave pulses meet and add together, producing a single wave of greater amplitude.

Front

What is a mechanical wave?

Back

A mechanical wave is a wave that requires a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel through.

Front

Can mechanical waves travel through a vacuum?

Back

No, mechanical waves cannot travel through a vacuum (empty space).