Unit 5 Waves Practice A

Front

What is the definition of a wave?

Back

A rhythmic disturbance that transfers energy through matter or space

Answer explanation

A wave is defined as a rhythmic disturbance that transfers energy through matter or space, distinguishing it from particles or specific mediums. This definition encompasses various types of waves, including sound and electromagnetic waves.

Front

Which of the following is an example of an electromagnetic wave? Light waves, Sound waves

Back

Light waves

Answer explanation

Light waves are a type of electromagnetic wave, which also includes radio waves and X-rays. In contrast, sound waves, water waves, and waves in a slinky are mechanical waves and do not involve electromagnetic radiation.

Front

Mechanical waves:

Back

Only travel through a medium

Answer explanation

Mechanical waves require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to propagate. They cannot travel through a vacuum, unlike electromagnetic waves. Therefore, the correct answer is that they only travel through a medium.

Front

In a transverse wave, the motion of particles is:

Back

Perpendicular to the direction of wave travel

Answer explanation

In a transverse wave, particles move perpendicular to the direction of wave travel, creating peaks and troughs. This distinguishes it from longitudinal waves, where particle motion is parallel to wave travel.

Front

The highest points of a transverse wave are called:

Back

Crests

Answer explanation

The highest points of a transverse wave are called crests. Troughs are the lowest points, while compressions and rarefactions refer to longitudinal waves. Therefore, the correct answer is crests.

Front

In a longitudinal wave, compressions are areas where:

Back

Particles are pushed together

Answer explanation

In a longitudinal wave, compressions occur where particles are pushed together, creating regions of high pressure. This is the opposite of rarefactions, where particles are spread apart.

Front

The amplitude of a wave represents:

Back

The amount of energy carried by the wave

Answer explanation

The amplitude of a wave indicates the maximum displacement from the rest position, which correlates to the energy carried by the wave. Higher amplitude means more energy.

Front

Which of the following is the correct unit for measuring frequency? Meters (m), Hertz (Hz)

Back

Hertz (Hz)

Answer explanation

The correct unit for measuring frequency is Hertz (Hz), which represents cycles per second. Other options like meters, seconds, and meters per second measure different physical quantities.

Front

The relationship between frequency (f) and period (T) is:

Back

f = 1/T

Answer explanation

The frequency (f) is the reciprocal of the period (T). This means that f = 1/T, where f is measured in hertz and T in seconds. Thus, the correct relationship is f = 1/T.

Front

As the frequency of a wave increases, its wavelength:

Back

Decreases

Answer explanation

As the frequency of a wave increases, the energy of the wave also increases, which results in a shorter wavelength. Therefore, the correct answer is that the wavelength decreases.