Physics Waves Quiz

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the correct definition of a wave?

A disturbance that transfers matter from one place to another.
A constant flow of particles in a medium.
A disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another without transferring matter. (correct)
A periodic motion in a solid medium only.

Electromagnetic waves require a medium to travel through.

False (B)

What is the term for the highest point of a wave?

Crest

The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs is known as _____ .

wavelength Signup and view all the answers

Match each type of wave with its correct movement:

Transverse Waves = Particles move perpendicular to the wave direction Longitudinal Waves = Particles move parallel to the wave direction Signup and view all the answers

Which medium would sound travel the fastest through?

Steel (A) Signup and view all the answers

Light can travel through a vacuum because it is an electromagnetic wave.

True (A) Signup and view all the answers

What happens to light when it passes through a prism?

It is refracted and separated into its component colors. Signup and view all the answers

The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately __________ kilometers per second.

300,000 Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms to their definitions:

Reflection = Light bounces off a surface at the same angle it hits. Refraction = Light bends while passing through different media. Diffraction = Light spreads out after passing through a small opening. Absorption = Light energy is taken in by materials and converted to heat. Signup and view all the answers

What is one key difference between mechanical waves and light waves?

Light waves do not require a medium for propagation. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Mechanical waves do not require a medium to travel through.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Name one example of a mechanical wave.

Sound or water waves Signup and view all the answers

Match the following characteristics with the appropriate type of wave:

Medium Required = Mechanical Waves Can travel through a vacuum = Light Waves Examples include sound and water waves = Mechanical Waves Examples include visible light and radio waves = Light Waves Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Wave Definition

A disturbance that transfers energy but not matter.

Mechanical Wave

A wave that needs a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel.