Interpreting Wave Graphs Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is the definition of periodic time, T?
Time for one complete cycle (= 1/(frequency, f))
What does a displacement-time graph focus on?
Oscillations at just one point in space
What is amplitude in the context of wave motion?
Maximum displacement, always measured from the central ‘rest’ or ‘equilibrium’ point
What does a displacement-distance graph represent?
Shows the wave shape over the whole space at a specific instant
What is the wavelength, λ?
The distance between two consecutive points where oscillations are in phase with one another
What is the phase difference?
Measured as an angle representing a fraction of a cycle
True or False: Two waves of the same frequency can be in phase or out of phase.
True
Fill in the blank: Energy takes time to ______.
travel
What does it mean for oscillations to be out of phase?
They have a phase difference, such as being half a cycle apart
What is the relationship between the period and frequency of a wave?
Frequency is the inverse of the period (f = 1/T)
What is the phase difference between a cyclist’s legs when they are half a cycle out of phase?
1/2 of a whole cycle
What is the frequency of the wave if the period is calculated to be 1.7 Hz?
1.7 Hz
What is the general shape of a displacement-distance graph?
It provides a snapshot of the wave shape at a single moment in time
Fill in the blank: The time taken for one wavelength to travel is equal to one ______.
periodic time
What unit is used to measure displacement in wave graphs?
Meters (m) or micro-meters (10^-6 m)
What is the significance of measuring from the displacement equals zero line?
It helps to determine the amplitude accurately
