Light & Waves Flashcard 24-25

Front

What is the primary function of solar panels?

Back

Solar panels convert light waves into electricity.

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another, such as from air into water.

Front

Which type of electromagnetic wave is most harmful to human tissue?

Back

Gamma rays are potentially the most harmful to human tissue.

Front

What does frequency measure in waves?

Back

Frequency is defined as the number of wave cycles that pass a fixed point in one second.

Front

What principle allows light to travel long distances in fiber optics?

Back

The principle of reflection allows light to travel long distances with minimal loss in fiber optic communication.

Front

What are electromagnetic waves?

Back

Electromagnetic waves are waves that can travel through the vacuum of space and consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields.

Front

What is the speed of light in a vacuum?

Back

The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (km/s).

Front

What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?

Back

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

Front

What is diffraction?

Back

Diffraction is the bending of waves around obstacles and openings.

Front

What is polarization in terms of light waves?

Back

Polarization is the orientation of the oscillations of light waves in a particular direction.