Wave Systems Basics

Question 1

Waves

Answer 1

Waves are vibrations that transfer energy without transferring matter. Some need matter to travel (mechanical waves) and others don’t (electromagnetic waves).

Question 2

Types of Waves

Answer 2

Transverse - particles vibrate at right angles to the direction of energy transfer.

Longitudinal - particles vibrate parallel to the direction of energy transfer.

In longitudinal:
Compression - particles move together and pressure is higher.
Rarefaction - particles move apart and pressure is lower.

Question 3

Wavelength (λ)

Answer 3

Distance between two corresponding points on a wave.

Unit - m

Question 4

Frequency (f)

Answer 4

Number of waves passing a point every second (waves per second).

Unit - Hz

Question 5

Amplitude (A)

Answer 5

Maximum displacement from equilibrium position.

Unit - m

Question 6

Period (T)

Answer 6

Time for one complete wave to pass a point (seconds per wave).

Unit - s

Question 7

Wave Speed (v)

Answer 7

The distance travelled per unit of time.

Unit - ms-1

Question 8

Light

Answer 8

• Travels at 3 x 10^8 ms-1 in a vacuum
• Transverse wave
• Electromagnetic wave - made up of fluctuating magnetic and electric fields
• Behaviour is dependent on wavelength

Question 9

Water

Answer 9

• Travelling disturbance of water
• Transverse wave
• Mechanical waves passing

Question 10

Sound

Answer 10

• Travels at ~340ms-1 in air
• Faster in denser materials
• Requires a medium to compress - mechanical wave
• Longitudinal wave
• Frequency (pitch) is inversely proportional to wavelength