Physics P1 - Waves

Physics P1 - Waves

1. Nature of Waves

   • Transverse- Vibration perpendicular to direction
   • Longitudinal- Vibration parallel to direction

2. Measuring Waves

   • Amplitude- Height of wave crest
   • Wavelength- Distance from one crest to next
   • Frequency- Waves past a point in 1 second
     • Hertz- Hz
   • Velocity= Freq. x Wavelength

3. Reflection

   • Normal perpendicular to surface
   • Angle of Incidence= Angle of Refraction
   • Image in a mirror is: same size, upright, laterally inverted virtual

4. Refraction

   • Change of direction when light enters a new substance
   • More dense- Towards normal
   • Less dense- Away from normal

5. Diffraction

   • Spreading of waves though a gap
   • Most notable if wavelength same as gap

6. Sound

   • Longitudinal waves
   • Need particles to travel

7. Musical Sound

   • Higher freq.= Higher pitch
   • Higher amplitude= Louder note