Earth/Physical Science Final Exam

What is a distinguishing feature of electromagnetic waves compared to mechanical waves?

• They require a medium to travel through.

• They transfer energy through particle vibrations.

• They can travel in a vacuum.

• They have no amplitude.

Which of the following correctly defines the wavelength of a wave?

• The time it takes for one full wave to pass a point.

• The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs.

• The number of waves passing a point per second.

• The height of the wave.

The speed of a wave on a string is 50 m/s, and its frequency is 25 Hz. What is its wavelength?

• 0.5 m

• 2 m

• 25 m

• 1250 m

Which wave type is NOT an example of a mechanical wave?

• Sound wave

• Water wave

• Light wave

• Seismic wave

In a transverse wave, particles of the medium move:

• Parallel to the direction of wave propagation.

• Perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.

• In random directions.

• In a circular motion.

The wave equation v=fλ implies that:

• Wave speed depends only on frequency.

• b. Wavelength increases if frequency decreases for constant speed.
• Speed and wavelength are inversely proportional.

• Frequency and speed are proportional.

A sound wave is an example of a:

• Transverse wave

• Electromagnetic wave

• Longitudinal wave

• Standing wave

The amplitude of a wave refers to:

• Its speed in a vacuum.

• The distance between two crests.

• The maximum displacement from its equilibrium position.

• The number of waves passing a point per second.

A longitudinal wave has which characteristic motion?

• Particles move perpendicular to the wave direction.

• Particles move parallel to the wave direction.

• Particles rotate in circular paths.

• Particles remain stationary.

The wave speed in a vacuum for electromagnetic waves is approximately:

• 3×10^5 m/s

• 3×10^6 m/s

• 3×10^7 m/s

• 3×10^8 m/s