Mechanical vs Electromagnetic Waves Pop Flashcard

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A disturbance that transfers energy from place to place through matter or space.

Front

What do mechanical waves require to travel?

Back

A medium (solid, liquid, or gas).

Front

What do electromagnetic waves require to travel?

Back

They do not require a medium and can travel through a vacuum.

Front

What is the primary characteristic of mechanical waves?

Back

They can only travel through a solid, liquid, or gas.

Front

What is the primary characteristic of electromagnetic waves?

Back

They can travel through a vacuum.

Front

What does a sound wave transfer?

Back

Energy, causing the air particles to vibrate.

Front

What is the difference between energy and matter in the context of waves?

Back

Waves carry energy only, not matter.

Front

What question can determine if a wave is mechanical or electromagnetic?

Back

Does it require a medium in order to travel?

Front

Can electromagnetic waves pass through air and water?

Back

Yes, they can pass through air and water.

Front

What is an example of a mechanical wave?

Back

Sound waves.