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Physics — Waves and Sound

Properties and behavior of mechanical and electromagnetic waves

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wave_function_w 15 terms Feb 2, 2026
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Terms 15

1
Wavelength
Distance between two consecutive identical points on a wave; symbol λ
2
Frequency
Number of complete wave cycles per second; measured in Hz
3
Amplitude
Maximum displacement of a wave from its rest position
4
Wave Speed
v = fλ; product of frequency and wavelength
5
Transverse Wave
Wave where oscillation is perpendicular to direction of travel; e.g. light
6
Longitudinal Wave
Wave where oscillation is parallel to direction of travel; e.g. sound
7
Reflection
Wave bouncing back from a surface
8
Refraction
Wave bending when passing between media of different densities
9
Diffraction
Wave spreading around obstacles or through openings
10
Interference
Superposition of two waves; constructive or destructive
11
Doppler Effect
Change in perceived frequency due to relative motion between source and observer
12
Resonance
Dramatic increase in amplitude when driving frequency matches natural frequency
13
Decibel
Logarithmic unit measuring sound intensity level
14
Electromagnetic Spectrum
Range of all EM waves: radio, microwave, infrared, visible, UV, X-ray, gamma
15
Speed of Light
c ≈ 3×10⁸ m/s in vacuum; maximum speed in the universe