Waves: An Interactive Tutorial
by Kyle Forinash and Wolfgang Christian
Hosted by
AAPT ComPADRE
1.
Basic Properties
2.
Combining Waves
3.
External Interactions
4.
Applications
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» Basic Properties
Basic Properties
The fundamental properties of waves, such as frequency, amplitude, wavelength, and motion direction, are quite different from those of rigid objects studied in mechanics. These tutorials explore the basics of wave motion.
Sine Wave
Speed of a Wave
Transverse Waves
Simple Harmonic Motion
Simple Harmonic Motion and Resonance
Longitudinal Waves
Water Waves
Two-Dimensional Waves
Sine Wave
The sine wave is the most basic and simplest form for a wave.
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Speed of a Wave
The speed of a wave is the material through which it travels and the properties of the wave.
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Transverse Waves
Transverse waves are quite familiar, such as those on oscillating strings.
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Simple Harmonic Motion
Simple harmonic motion, such as for a bouncing spring, is a standard means of producing waves.
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Simple Harmonic Motion and Resonance
Resonance occurs when an object is pushed at the natural frequency of its wave-like motion or oscillations.
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Longitudinal Waves
Longitudinal waves are those where the oscillating motion and the wave motion are in the same directions, such as in sound waves.
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Water Waves
Waves in water are a combination of transverse and longitudinal motion.
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Two-Dimensional Waves
Waves on surfaces can move in two dimensions, like ripples on a pond.
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