Oscillations and Waves

Front

What is an oscillation?

Back

An oscillation is a repetitive variation, typically in time, of some measure about a central value (mean) or between two or more different states.

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another without transferring matter.

Front

What is the difference between transverse and longitudinal waves?

Back

Transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave travel, while longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to the direction of wave travel.

Front

What is kinetic energy?

Back

Kinetic energy is the energy that an object possesses due to its motion.

Front

Where is kinetic energy maximum in a spring oscillation?

Back

Kinetic energy is maximum at the midpoint of the oscillation, where the speed of the object is greatest.

Front

What is potential energy in the context of oscillations?

Back

Potential energy is the stored energy in an object due to its position, such as the energy stored in a compressed or stretched spring.

Front

What is the principle of superposition?

Back

The principle of superposition states that when two or more waves overlap, the resulting wave displacement is the sum of the individual displacements.

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Refraction is the bending of waves as they pass from one medium to another due to a change in speed.

Front

What is an echo?

Back

An echo is a reflection of sound that arrives at the listener after a delay.

Front

What is a mechanical wave?

Back

A mechanical wave is a wave that requires a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel through.