1. Transverse and Longitudinal Waves
Physics Learning Targets: Wave Mechanics
Transverse and Longitudinal Waves
Wave Characteristics
Wave Behavior
I can compare properties and behaviors of transverse waves and longitudinal waves, including electromagnetic waves and sound waves.
This means that I can…
Compare and contrast how longitudinal and transverse waves travel and move the medium that they travel in with respect to the direction of wave travel.
Explain the difference between a mechanical wave and an EM wave, particularly which requires a physical medium and which one does not.
Identify types of longitudinal and transverse waves (including sound, EM waves, waves on a string, water waves).
State which types of waves (longitudinal/transverse) can travel through solids and which can travel through solids, liquids, and gases.
Explain the real-world difference between P and S waves in seismology based on their speeds, their wave type, and their destructive power.
Sketch examples of both of these waves.
When did we do this?
Guided Notes: Types of Waves
Earthquake Project
Quiz 4.1
Homework
The beginning of time
I can analyze characteristics of waves, including velocity, frequency, amplitude, and wavelength, and calculate them using the wave equation.
State the definition of a wave.
Explain the definitions of wavelength, frequency, period, and amplitude.
Identify parts of a wave including crests, troughs, wavelength, compressions, rarefactions, and amplitude.
Apply the wave equation to solve for wavelength, frequency, or speed of a wave.
Calculate period from frequency, or vice versa.
Interpret a graph of a wave’s position and time to find its period.
Calculate the relative energies of two waves given their amplitudes
Green foldable
Earthquake project
In-Class Problems
I can explain and investigate the behaviors of waves, including reflection, refraction, diffraction, and interference.
This means that I can….
Define reflection, refraction, and diffraction
Identify visual representations of refraction, diffraction, reflection, and interference
Explain what it means for waves to add constructively and destructively
Predict the direction of a light wave bending from the 3 conditions of refraction
Apply the diffraction condition to determine when interference is produced
Sketch the resulting wave in a graph when two waves interfere
Use the law of reflection to predict angles of incidence or reflection
*Standing waves will not be tested in this exam.*
Blue Foldable
In-Class Simulation
Standing Waves and Interferences Notes + Reading

2. Possible Free-Response Topics
Sketching and labeling respective parts of a longitudinal or transverse wave.
Solving a beat frequency problem and explaining solution.
Sketching the result of two waves interfering.
Compare/contrast refraction, reflection, and diffraction.
Given two waves, calculate ratios of energy from amplitudes.
Reading a graph like the earthquake project and identifying period, solving for frequency, etc.