Physical Science - Introduction to Waves

Introduction to Waves

• A wave is a disturbance that carries energy from one place to another.
• Disturbance in a medium is caused by a force.

Types of Waves

• Mechanical waves require matter to transmit energy; examples include sound waves.
• Electromagnetic waves can travel through space without needing a medium; examples include radio waves and gamma rays.

Characteristics of Waves

• Both longitudinal and transverse waves are mechanical waves carrying energy through matter.
• Longitudinal waves transmit energy parallel to wave motion, while transverse waves transmit energy perpendicular to motion.
• All waves, regardless of type, carry energy.

Distinguishing Waves

• Sound and light waves are examples of mechanical and electromagnetic waves, respectively.
• Shock waves from earthquakes are classified as mechanical waves.

Wave Components

• Parts of a transverse wave include:
  • Crest: the highest point
  • Trough: the lowest point
  • Amplitude: the height from the rest position to crest or trough
  • Wavelength: the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs

Descriptive Analogies

• A toy car rear-ending another car serves as a good analogy for wave propagation.
• Tipping over dominoes visually represents the concept of a wave.

Venn Diagrams in Wave Comparison

• Center section of diagrams comparing mechanical and electromagnetic waves should include "Carry energy" and "Follow a pattern."
• Comparison of longitudinal and transverse waves highlights that their descriptions of motion are often confused.

Differences in Wave Propagation

• Sound waves can transfer energy through matter (like air), while infrared waves travel through space.

Study Tools

• A radio telescope studies radio waves, indicating this type of wave is electromagnetic.
• When examining waves, identifying motion can clarify properties; e.g., particles in transverse waves move up and down within small areas.