U3 6th Grade Waves Study Guide

Front

What is amplitude in a wave?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum distance that the wave moves away from its rest position. It is related to the energy of the wave; greater amplitude means more energy.

Front

What happens to the energy of a wave as its amplitude increases?

Back

The greater the amplitude of a wave, the greater the amount of energy transferring.

Front

What is frequency in the context of waves?

Back

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

Front

How can you determine which wave has a higher frequency?

Back

You can determine which wave has a higher frequency by observing which wave completes more cycles in a given time.

Front

What is the relationship between color and energy absorption from sunlight?

Back

Dark colors absorb more energy and get warmer than light colors, which reflect more energy and stay cooler.

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

A longitudinal wave is a type of wave where the particles of the medium move parallel to the direction of the wave's travel.

Front

What is rarefaction in a longitudinal wave?

Back

Rarefaction is the region in a longitudinal wave where the particles are spread apart, resulting in lower pressure.

Front

What is a crest in a wave?

Back

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

Front

What is a trough in a wave?

Back

A trough is the lowest point of a wave, representing the minimum displacement of the medium from its rest position.

Front

What is the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

Back

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