Physics 1

Chapter 14 Notes

Transverse – Particles in the medium move perpendicular to the

direction of propagation.

Longitudinal – Particles in the medium move parallel to the direction 

                      of propagation.

                     Wave Pulse – A single wave disturbance. A traveling wave that moves from one 

                                           point to another.

                     Standing Wave – Remains in place.

Period (T) - The time it takes for a wave to repeat itself.

Frequency – The number of wave vibrations per second.

• When waves pass from one medium to another (ex. air to water) some of the energy is reflected while some passes through.
• If the new medium is significantly more dense, much of the wave is reflected and inverted.
• If the new medium is less dense, the wave is erect.

• Two or more waves traveling through a medium at the same time.
• The resultant wave is the algebraic sum of the waves.
• Interference is the result of two or more waves in the same place at the same time.

• The bending of a wave as it travels from one medium to another.

- The bending of a wave around a barrier.

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