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Learn about wave components such as wavelength, amplitude, and frequency. Explore the differences between transverse and longitudinal waves with practical examples. Enhance your knowledge of wave energy and characteristics.
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All waves carry energy Waves
Wave Components • Wavelength () • This is the distance from the crest of one wave to the crest of the next wave (or trough to trough)
Wave Components Amplitude This is the height of a wave from the mid-point to a crest (or from the mid-point to a trough)
Wave Components Frequency (f) • This is the number of complete waves per second. It is measured in Hertz (Hz)
Examples of Frequency What is the frequency of the second hand of a clock? Frequency = 1cycle/60 sec What is the frequency of US Presidential elections? Frequency = 1 election/4 yrs
Frequency & Pitch high frequency = high pitch low frequency = low pitch
Transverse vs. Longitudinal Waves • Transverse waves (water waves, light waves) move perpendicular (at a 90o angle) to the direction of the wave and the direction its energy is traveling
Transverse vs. Longitudinal Waves • Sound is a longitudinal wave, meaning that the vibrations move the same direction the wave is traveling in
Example of what a speaker does to air molecules to produce sound A longitudinal wave!