Wave

Definition

A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy through space or a medium without the permanent displacement of particles. Waves can be classified into mechanical and electromagnetic types.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Waves have key characteristics such as wavelength, frequency, amplitude, and speed.
2. Mechanical waves require a medium to travel through whereas electromagnetic waves do not.
3. The speed of a wave is given by the product of its frequency and wavelength: $v = f\lambda$.
4. Transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation, while longitudinal waves oscillate parallel.
5. The principle of superposition states that when two or more waves meet, the resultant displacement is the sum of their individual displacements.

Review Questions

• What are the main differences between transverse and longitudinal waves?
• How does the principle of superposition apply to waves?
• Calculate the speed of a wave with a frequency of 10 Hz and a wavelength of 2 meters.

Related terms

Wavelength: The distance between successive crests, troughs, or identical parts of a wave.

Frequency: $\text{Frequency}$ refers to the number of oscillations or cycles per unit time of a wave.

$Amplitude$: $\text{Amplitude}$ is the maximum displacement from the rest position in an oscillatory motion or wave.