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.

Test your knowledge of waves with these flashcards focusing on key concepts in physical science. Learn about the nature of waves, the forces that create them, and the differences between mechanical and electromagnetic waves.