Waves Study Guide

Front

What is a medium in the context of sound waves?

Back

A medium is a substance (solid, liquid, or gas) through which sound waves travel. Without a medium, sound cannot be transmitted.

Front

Why does calcite glow under ultraviolet light but not under regular light?

Back

Calcite can absorb energy from ultraviolet light, which causes it to glow, while regular light does not provide enough energy for this effect.

Front

What is transmission in wave behavior?

Back

Transmission is the process by which a wave passes through a medium without being absorbed or reflected.

Front

Can sunlight make special ink visible?

Back

Yes, sunlight can provide energy that causes the special ink to become visible.

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).

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

A transverse wave is a type of wave where the motion of the medium is perpendicular to the direction of the wave's travel.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

Back

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

Front

What is an example of a medium for sound waves?

Back

Examples of mediums include air, water, and solid materials like metal or wood.

Front

What happens to sound waves in a vacuum?

Back

Sound waves cannot travel in a vacuum because there is no medium to carry the sound.

Front

What is the speed of sound in air at room temperature?

Back

The speed of sound in air at room temperature (20°C) is approximately 343 meters per second.