The Physics of Waves Part 1

20 questions covering topics 4.4 and 4.5 of HL Simple harmonic motion and waves. Requires knowledge of wave properties and the laws and rules which describe the observations of these wave properties.

?
The four unique basic properties (abilities) of waves are...?
Reflection, Refraction, Interference and Diffraction
1 of 13
When a wave in a length of rope of amplitude 1 (arb) travels towards and hits a fixed end...?
The wave is reflected in the opposite direction with an amplitude of -1 (arb)
2 of 13
In a longitudinal/compression wave...
The direction of the disturbance is parallel to the direction that the wave profile moves
3 of 13
In a transverse wave...
The direction of the disturbance is perpendicular to the direction that the wave profile moves
4 of 13
Two waves of frequency (f) and amplitude (a) meet in phase, causing...?
Constructive interference with a new temporary wave of amplitude (2a) and frequency (f)
5 of 13
The angle of incidence of a ray on a surface is measured...?
Between the vector of the incident ray and the normal
6 of 13
When a wave goes through a typical change of medium...?
The wave is both reflected and also refracted due to a change in wave speed
7 of 13
How does Snell's law relate the angles of incidence (i) and refraction (r) to the velocity of the wave in the two media (v1 & v2)?
Sin(i) / Sin(r) = v1 / v2
8 of 13
In order for a wave to be diffracted it must pass through an opening equal to roughly...?
The wavelength of the wave
9 of 13
Two light waves of similar frequency and amplitude from two different sources incident on a screen will produce...?
Alternating areas of light and dark to be observed due to constructive and destructive interference.
10 of 13
The plane of polarization of light can be identified by...?
Placing a second Polaroid in the path of the detector at 90°
11 of 13
The intensity of light is proportional to...?
The amplitude of the light wave squared
12 of 13
Light is...?
The propagation of a transverse disturbance in the electric and (perpendicular) magnetic field.
13 of 13

Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

When a wave in a length of rope of amplitude 1 (arb) travels towards and hits a fixed end...?

Back

The wave is reflected in the opposite direction with an amplitude of -1 (arb)

Card 3

Front

In a longitudinal/compression wave...

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

In a transverse wave...

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

Two waves of frequency (f) and amplitude (a) meet in phase, causing...?

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
View more cards

Comments

No comments have yet been made

Similar Physics resources:

Waves
See all Physics resources »See all Waves resources »