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Waves in Physics Flashcards
Free GCSE Physics Study Cards
From transverse and longitudinal waves to reflection, refraction, diffraction and the electromagnetic spectrum, these free Physics flashcards cover everything on waves for GCSE and A Level.
Question
What is a wave?
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Answer
A disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another without transferring matter.
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Question
What is the difference between transverse and longitudinal waves?
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Answer
Transverse: oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of wave travel (e.g. light, water waves). Longitudinal: oscillations are parallel to the direction of travel (e.g. sound).
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Question
What is wavelength?
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Answer
The distance between two consecutive points that are in phase (e.g. crest to crest). Symbol: λ, Unit: metres (m).
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Question
What is frequency?
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Answer
The number of complete wave cycles passing a point per second. Symbol: f, Unit: hertz (Hz).
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Question
What is the wave speed equation?
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Answer
v = fλ, where v = wave speed (m/s), f = frequency (Hz), λ = wavelength (m).
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Question
What is amplitude?
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Answer
The maximum displacement of a particle from its equilibrium (rest) position. Greater amplitude = more energy carried by the wave.
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Question
What is the electromagnetic spectrum?
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Answer
The range of all electromagnetic waves ordered by wavelength/frequency: radio, microwave, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, gamma rays. All travel at c = 3×10⁸ m/s in a vacuum.
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Question
What is reflection?
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Answer
The bouncing of a wave off a surface. The angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection (measured from the normal).
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Question
What is refraction?
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Answer
The change in direction of a wave as it passes from one medium to another due to a change in speed. The wave bends toward the normal when slowing down (entering a denser medium).
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Question
What is diffraction?
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Answer
The spreading out of waves as they pass through a gap or around an obstacle. Most significant when the gap width is comparable to the wavelength.
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