Chapter 11: Wave Motion Flashcards
What is a transverse wave?
It is a wave where the particles oscillate perpendicularly to the direction of wave propagation
What is a longitudinal wave?
It is a wave where the particles oscillate parallel to the direction of wave propagation
Define amplitude
It is the maximum displacement of an oscillating particle from its original position
Define wavelength
It is the distance between two successive particles in phase
Define period
It is the time taken for one successful oscillation
Define frequency
It refers to the number of complete oscillations per unit time (usually in one second)
Define compression
It is a region of high particle concentration
Define rarefaction
It is a region of low particle concentration
Define intensity
It is the rate of flow of energy per unit area perpendicular to the wave’s direction
What is the relationship between radius of power output and amplitude of the wave
A is inversely proportional to r
(A ∝ 1/r)
Define polarisation
It is a process where the wave’s oscillations are made to occur in a single plane only
What is Malus’ Law and when is it applicable?
I=I0(cosθ)^2
It is only applicable for plane polarised waves
What is the formula that relates A and θ in plane polarisation?
A = A0cosθ
(I ∝ A^2)
When a non-polarised wave passes through a polariser with intensity I, what is its new intensity?
1/2 I
