Physics Definitions ( Waves)

Question 1

Transverse wave

Answer 1

Oscillation perpendicular to the direction of wave travel

Question 2

Longitudinal wave

Answer 2

Oscillation parallel to the direction of wave travel

Question 3

Amplitude

Answer 3

Maximum displacement from original position

Question 3

Longitudinal wave

Answer 3

Oscillation parallel to the direction of wave travel

Question 4

Wavelength

Answer 4

Horizontal distance between 2 adjacent crests / troughs

Question 5

Frequency

Answer 5

Number of complete oscillations in a second

Question 6

Period

Answer 6

Time taken for one complete oscillation

Question 7

Reflection of wave

Answer 7

Change of direction when a wave collides with a reflective barrier

Question 8

Refraction of wave

Answer 8

Change of direction when a wave goes through a medium

Question 9

Diffraction of wave

Answer 9

When waves spread when it goes through an opening

Question 10

Total internal reflection

Answer 10

The complete reflection of light ray back to its original position , which happens when it is moving from dense to less dense medium and when the angle of incidence exceeds the critical angle

Question 11

Refractive index

Answer 11

Speed of light in vacuum over speed of light in medium

Question 12

Critical angle

Answer 12

Angle of incidence in a denser medium when the angle of refraction is 90 degrees

Question 13

Focal length

Answer 13

Distance between the focal point and the centre of lens

Question 14

Principle focus

Answer 14

The point where all light rays meet together