Wavefront

• This is a wavefront reflection

  
• a wave is not just a single point; waves are a series of parallel lines; each line = peak of a wave
• to measure  λ, use a ruler
• Refraction can occur in water waves
• deeper water = waves travel faster (less resistance) + λ = longer
• shallow water = slower waves (more resistance) +  λ = shorter
• Water refraction:

  • Speed = slower
  •  λ = shorter
  • F = the same
  • Amplitude gets shorter --> waves get squashed
• label the wavefront diagram:

  A) wavelength

  B) wavelength

  C) wavelength

  
• rules for completing a water waves refraction diagram:

  1. waves must be equally spaced
  2. closer together if deeper water to shallower
  3. draw over 3 waves
  4. must be 90 degrees to line