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Waves: Terms
AP Physics Exam 5%
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Mechanical Wave | A mechanical wave is a wave that propagates as an oscillation of matter, and therefore transfers energy through a medium. The medium itself is not transported. |
Transverse Wave | A transverse wave is a moving wave that consists of oscillations occurring perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer. |
T | Period units: seconds (s) symbol: T Defined as the time between to successive crests or troughs. |
f | Frequency units: Hertz (Hz) symbol: f Defined as the number of complete cycles per second. |
λ | Wavelength units: meters (m) symbol: lambda (λ) Defined as the distance between two adjacent crests or troughs. |