WAVES VOCABULARY

Use google to assist you with finding the correct vocabulary words that match their definition as a review! 1. Wave - A disturbance in matter that transfer energy through matter or space2. Medium - material through which a mechanical wave moves3. Crest - highest point on a wave4. Trough - lowest point on a wave5. Wavelength - Distance from a point on a wave to the same point on the next wave6. Frequency - number of waves that pass a point in one second; measured in hertz7. Mechanical wave - wave that transmits energy through a medium8. Transverse wave - Mechanical wave that causes perpendicular motion of the medium through which it travels (in relation to the wave)9. Longitudinal wave - mechanical wave that causes parallel motion of the medium through which it travels (in relation to the wave)10. Electromagnetic wave - wave that does not require a medium through which to travel (visible light, uv, x-rays, etc.)11. Transparent - transmits all light; it is possible to see through these materials12. Translucent - scatters light; it is possible to partially see through these materials13. Opaque - Absorbs or reflects all light; it is not possible to see through these materials14. Amplitude - Measure of the size or magnitude of a wave15. Hertz - Unit of measurement for wave frequency16. Light - travels in waves that transmit electromagnetic energy; allows for visibility17. Diffraction - the bending of a wave around a barrier18. Reflection - Occurs when a wave bounces off a barrier, often flipping upside down19. Refraction - occurs when a wave bends as it enters a new medium