Vibrations are parallel to the direction of travel
Transverse waves
Vibrations are perpendicular to the direction of travel
Mechanical waves
cause oscillations in solids, liquids or gases
Electromagnetic waves
cause oscillations in electrical and magnetic fields
Medium
Material which a wave is transmitted through
Amplitude
Maximum displacement of a wave
Wavelength
Distance covered by a full cycle of the wave
Frequency
Number of cycles per second
Measuring waves in water
Use a ripple tank to measure and colorate frequency, wavelength and the speed of waves on the surface of water
Measuring waves in a solid
Attach a string or cord to a vibration generator and use a charging mass to pull the string down. Place wooden bridge under the string. Switch on generator, adjust wooden bridge until waves can be observed. Measure length of half wavelength, divide by the number recorded and then double to give the wavelength. Frequency is the frequency of power supply
