Properties of Waves

Front

What are electromagnetic waves?

Back

Electromagnetic waves are waves that can travel through a vacuum and do not require a medium. Examples include visible light, x-rays, and microwaves.

Front

Why can't sound be heard in space?

Back

Sound cannot be heard in space because space is a vacuum, which means there is no medium (like air) for sound waves to travel through.

Front

What is wavelength?

Back

Wavelength is the distance between two identical points on a wave, such as from crest to crest or trough to trough.

Front

What are mechanical waves?

Back

Mechanical waves are waves that require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel through. Sound waves are an example of mechanical waves.

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A wave is a disturbance that sends energy away from the source. It can be in the form of sound, light, or other types of energy.

Front

What is the difference between transverse and longitudinal waves?

Back

In transverse waves, the particle movement is perpendicular to the direction of wave travel (e.g., light waves). In longitudinal waves, the particle movement is parallel to the direction of wave travel (e.g., sound waves).

Front

What is amplitude?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum distance that the particles of a wave move from their rest position. It is related to the energy of the wave.

Front

What is frequency?

Back

Frequency is the number of waves that pass a given point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz). Higher frequency means more waves in a given time.

Front

What is wave speed?

Back

Wave speed is the speed at which a wave travels through a medium. It can be calculated using the formula: Wave Speed = Wavelength x Frequency.

Front

What is a crest in a wave?

Back

A crest is the highest point of a wave, representing the maximum displacement of the wave from its rest position.