Properties of Waves

Properties of Waves

1. Reflection

   • All waves obey the law of reflection
   • i=r
     • Angle of Incidence = Angle of Reflection

2. Refraction

   • When a wave passes from a less to more dense medium (air to glass), it will bend.
     • The wave bends towards the normal
   • When a wave passes from a more to less dense medium (glass to air), it will bend
     • The wave bends away from the normal
   • Refraction occurs due to the wave changing speed
     • It slows down as it enters the glass

3. Diffraction

   • The Spreading of waves through a gap
   • Diffraction is increased if the gap is narrow

4. All waves obey the wave equation

   • Velocity= frequency x wavelength

Images and files in the map