Page 1: Wave Properties and Types
This page provides a comprehensive overview of fundamental wave properties and different wave types. The content begins with key wave characteristics and moves into detailed explanations of wave behavior and interactions.
Definition: Amplitude is the maximum displacement of a wave from its equilibrium position, measured in meters.
Vocabulary: Phase difference refers to how much one particle or wave lags behind another, measured in radians, degrees, or fractions of a cycle.
Example: In electromagnetic waves, all waves including radio waves, microwaves, and visible light travel at 3x10⁸ m/s in a vacuum.
Highlight: The relationship between wave speed, frequency, and wavelength is given by the equation c = fλ.
The page explores longitudinal and transverse waves in detail, explaining how transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer, while longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to it. Polarisation is introduced as a unique property of transverse waves, with practical applications in sunglasses and telecommunications.
Quote: "Polarised waves oscillate in only one plane, ONLY TRANSVERSE WAVES CAN BE POLARISED"