C.2.1 Classification of waves

Classification of Waves

They can be classified based on how the particles of the medium move relative to the direction of wave propagation.

Transverse Waves: Particle Motion Perpendicular to Wave Propagation

In transverse waves, the particles of the medium oscillate perpendicularly to the direction of wave propagation.

Longitudinal Waves: Particle Motion Parallel to Wave Propagation

In longitudinal waves, the particles of the medium oscillate parallel to the direction of wave propagation.

Key Wave Parameters: Wavelength, Frequency, Time Period, and Wave Speed

To fully describe a wave, we need to understand several key parameters:

Wavelength ($\lambda$)

• The wavelength ($\lambda$) is the distance between two consecutive points in phase on a wave, such as crest to crest or trough to trough.
• It is measured in meters (m).

Frequency ($f$)

• The frequency ($f$) is the number of complete waves that pass a given point in one second.
• It is measured in hertz(Hz), where 1 Hz = 1 wave per second.

Time Period ($T$)

• The time period ($T$) is the time taken for one complete wave to pass a given point.
• It is measured in seconds (s).

Wave Speed ($v$)

• The wave speed ($v$) is the speed at which the wave propagates through the medium.
• It is measured in meters per second (m/s).

Wave Speed Equations

1. The speed of a wave is determined by its wavelength and frequency.
2. The relationship between these parameters is given by the wave speed equation:

$$v=f\lambda$$

This equation can also be expressed in terms of the time period:

$$v=\frac{\lambda }{T}$$

Comparing Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

Self-Assessment

Understanding the classification of waves and their key parameters provides a foundation for exploring more complex wave phenomena, such as interference, diffraction, and polarization.