Wave Speed and Transverse Wave Motion Quiz

Wave Properties

• The speed of a wave is determined by properties of the medium, specifically its elasticity and density.

Wave Equation

• The equation of a progressive wave is $y(x, t) = R \sin(\omega t - kx)$.
• Where:
  • $y(x, t)$ is the displacement of the wave at position $x$ and time $t$.
  • $R$ is the amplitude of the wave.
  • $\omega$ is the angular frequency of the wave.
  • $k$ is the wave number.

Phase of a Wave

• The phase of a wave, $\phi$, is defined as $\phi = \omega t - kx$.
• When the phase is constant, the wave is considered to be in a constant state.

Speed of a Wave

• The speed of a wave, $z$, is defined as the product of frequency, $n$, and wavelength, $\lambda$: $z = n\lambda$.

Speed of a Transverse Wave on a String

• The speed of a transverse wave on a stretched string is given by the equation $v = n\lambda$.