Physics Waves Review

Front

What is amplitude in a wave?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum displacement of points on a wave from its rest position. It is related to the energy of the wave; higher amplitude means more energy.

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

A longitudinal wave is a type of wave in which the particles of the medium move parallel to the direction of the wave's propagation. An example is a sound wave.

Front

What does the letter G represent in wave diagrams?

Back

In wave diagrams, letter G typically represents the wavelength, which is the distance between successive crests or troughs of a wave.

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

A transverse wave is a type of wave in which the particles of the medium move perpendicular to the direction of the wave's propagation. An example is a light wave.

Front

What is a medium in the context of waves?

Back

A medium is a substance (solid, liquid, or gas) through which a wave can travel. For example, air is the medium for sound waves.

Front

What is frequency in relation to waves?

Back

Frequency is the number of waves that pass a given point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz). Higher frequency means more waves per second.

Front

What is wavelength?

Back

Wavelength is the distance between two consecutive points that are in phase on a wave, such as crest to crest or trough to trough.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

Back

Frequency and wavelength are inversely related; as the frequency increases, the wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation: speed = frequency × wavelength.

Front

What is wave speed?

Back

Wave speed is the distance a wave travels per unit of time. It can be calculated using the formula: speed = frequency × wavelength.

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 above its rest position.