Wave Properties

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A wave is a repeating disturbance or vibration that transfers or moves energy from place to place.

Front

What do all waves have in common?

Back

All waves transfer energy and not matter.

Front

What is wavelength?

Back

Wavelength is typically a measurement from the crest to crest of a transverse wave or the beginning of a compression to the beginning of the next compression in a compressional wave.

Front

What is amplitude?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum distance that the particles of a medium move from their rest position when a wave passes through.

Front

What is frequency?

Back

Frequency is the number of waves that pass a given point in a certain amount of time, usually measured in Hertz (Hz).

Front

What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency?

Back

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

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

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

Front

What is a compressional wave?

Back

A compressional 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 an example of a wave that transfers energy?

Back

Sound waves are an example of waves that transfer energy through a medium, such as air.

Front

What is the crest of a wave?

Back

The crest is the highest point of a wave.