Types of Waves in Physics

This page introduces the fundamental concepts of wave properties in Physics. It explains that waves are ubiquitous phenomena that can be classified into two main categories:

1. Mechanical waves: These involve the oscillation of particles, such as water waves or sound waves.
2. Electromagnetic waves: These do not require particles but involve oscillations of the electromagnetic field.

The page also distinguishes between transverse and longitudinal waves based on the direction of oscillations relative to energy transfer.

Definition: A wave transfers energy from one place to another without the transfer of matter. All waves involve oscillations that allow energy transfer without particle flow.

Highlight: In transverse waves, oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer, while in longitudinal waves, they are parallel.

The page includes diagrams illustrating the key components of waves, such as amplitude, wavelength, and period. It emphasizes that while waves transfer energy, the particles themselves only oscillate in place.

Example: A rubber duck floating on water waves demonstrates how particles oscillate up and down while the wave itself moves horizontally across the water's surface.

Vocabulary:

• Oscillations: Vibrations or movements of particles or electromagnetic fields
• Amplitude: Maximum displacement from the wave's undisturbed position
• Wavelength: Distance between equivalent points on adjacent waves
• Frequency: Number of complete waves passing a point per second
• Period: Time taken to complete one full wave cycle

The page concludes with the wave equation, v = fλ, which relates wave speed, frequency, and wavelength.