Topic 1 · 7.1–7.2 · Free
Topic Notes · Easy summaries with diagrams
Chapter 7 — Chapter 7 — Waves and Vibrations
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Topic 1 of 7
📘Easy summary
A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another without transfer of matter. Progressive (travelling) waves move forward through the medium. In transverse waves the particles vibrate perpendicular to the direction of propagation (waves on a string, light) — they have crests and troughs. In longitudinal waves the particles vibrate along the direction of propagation (sound) — they have compressions and rarefactions. Wave speed equation: v = fλ. Mechanical waves need a medium; electromagnetic waves do not.
⭐Key points
- Energy transfer without matter transfer.
- Transverse vs longitudinal.
- v = fλ.
🔬Diagram
🌿Real-life example
String wave 24 m s⁻¹, λ = 12 m: f = 2 Hz.
💡Exam tip
- Compressions correspond to crests, rarefactions to troughs.
✅Quick check
1. Sound in air is:
2. Wave equation:
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