Parts of a Wave

• Identify the main parts of transverse and longitudinal waves.

• Define amplitude, wavelength, frequency, and period of a wave.

• Explain the relationship between a wave's frequency, wavelength, and speed.

• Differentiate between transverse and longitudinal waves based on their structure.

Key Vocabulary

Crest

The highest point a medium reaches during its vibration in a transverse wave.

Trough

The lowest point a medium reaches during its vibration in a transverse wave.

Amplitude

The maximum distance particles move from their rest position, indicating the wave's energy or intensity.

Wavelength

The distance between two identical points on successive waves, such as from one crest to the next.

Frequency

The number of complete waves that pass a specific point in a given amount of time.

Period

The total time it takes for one complete wave cycle to pass a fixed point.

Transverse Waves

• ​Particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of the wave.

• ​​This means the particles move in an up-and-down motion as the wave passes.

• ​A classic example of this type of wave is a ripple on water.

Longitudinal Waves

• ​Particles of the medium vibrate parallel to the direction of the wave.

• ​​This means the particles move in a back-and-forth motion as the wave passes.

• ​Sound waves are a perfect example of a longitudinal wave traveling through air.

Anatomy of a Transverse Wave

• The rest position is the line halfway between the highest and lowest points.

• A crest is the highest point of a wave; a trough is the lowest point.

• Amplitude is the distance from the rest position to a crest or a trough.

• Wavelength (λ) is the distance between two crests or two troughs.

Anatomy of a Longitudinal Wave

• Compressions are areas where particles are crowded together.

• Rarefactions are areas where particles are spread apart.

• Wavelength is the distance between two compressions or rarefactions.

Wave Properties: Frequency, Period, and Speed