Wave motion
- Energy is transferred through moving oscillations or vibrations.
- These can be seen in vibrations of ropes or springs
Vibrations of ropes or springs
Waves can be shown through vibrations in ropes or springs
- The oscillations / vibrations can be perpendicular or parallel to the direction of wave travel:
- When they are perpendicular, they are transverse waves
- When they are parallel, they are longitudinal waves
Ripple tanks
- Ripple tanks may be used to demonstrate the wave properties of reflection, refraction and diffraction.
- The paddle produces a combination of transverse and longitudinal waves
A ripple tank
Wave effects can be demonstrated using a ripple tank - the taller regions of water block more light, allowing the wavefronts to be seen using shadows