Understanding Waves and Signals

Waves are disturbances that transfer energy through a medium or space.

Mechanical waves require a physical medium (like water or air) to propagate. They cannot travel through a vacuum.

Electromagnetic waves do not need a medium to travel. They can propagate through empty space.

Transverse waves move energy perpendicular to the direction of the wave's motion.

Longitudinal waves move energy in the same direction as the wave's motion.

The distance between two consecutive crests (or troughs) of a wave. It determines the type and energy of the wave.

The maximum displacement of a wave from its resting position. It determines the intensity or loudness of the wave.

When light bounces off a surface without being absorbed. It changes direction but retains its energy.

When a material takes in energy from a wave, its properties can change. For example, the color of a material can change if it absorbs certain wavelengths of light.

Sound is created by vibrations that travel through a medium, like air. These vibrations create waves that reach our ears and are interpreted as sound.

A sound wave with a higher pitch has a higher frequency, meaning the vibrations are happening more rapidly. A lower pitch means the vibrations are happening more slowly.

A sound wave with a louder volume has a larger amplitude, meaning the waves are stronger and carry more energy. Conversely, a quieter volume means the waves are weaker and have a smaller amplitude.

An analog signal is a continuous electrical signal that represents a physical measurement. Its value changes smoothly over time. Think of a clock's hands continuously moving.