Module 6: Waves

wavesA wide range of physical phenomena can be described in terms of waves. Waves are essential to our understanding of sound and light, and are used to explore topics from the motion of electrons to the origins of the universe.

In this module, you will learn some vocabulary associated with waves, then you will go on to explore various phenomena associated with waves.  You will see how these phenomena are observed in both sound and light. You will look beyond visible light to the other portions of the electromagnetic spectrum and see how essential waves are to your everyday activities.

Pre-Assessment:

observation iconMake some waves. Fill a sink, a bathtub or a large container part of the way with water. Using your hand, a utensil, or some other object, disturb the surface of the water. Now, using your hand, a utensil or some other object, disturb the surface of the water. First, make a single disturbance and record what you observe. Next, disturb the surface regularly and repeatedly and record what you observe. Change something about how you make the disturbances by changing the magnitude, the rate or some other factor. Record what you observe. How can you describe the different waves you create? How do the various waves differ? Do you notice any other interesting phenomena about the waves?

Discussion IconPost your observations on the discussion board. Make your initial post, then return to the discussion board several times over the next few days to read your classmates’ posts. Reply to at least two of them, being sure to offer new insights, ask questions, and encourage further conversation.

Key Vocabulary:

To view the definitions for these key vocabulary terms, visit the course glossary.

Angle of reflection
Greenhouse Effect
Radio
Angle of refraction
In Phase
Rarefaction
Antinode
Infrared
Resonance
Anti-Reflective Coating
Interference
Rods
Beats
Interferometer
Sonic Boom
Beta particle
Law of Reflection
Sound
Blue Shift
Light
Spectral Lines
Coherent
Longitudinal Wave
Spectrum
Compression
Loudness
Standing Wave
Cones
Media
Standing Waves
Constructive Interference
Medium
Surface Wave
Continuous Wave
Microwave
Transverse Wave
Cosmic Microwave Background
Natural Frequency
Trough
Crest
Node
Ultraviolet
Destructive Interference
Normal Line
UV-A
Diffraction
Out Of Phase
UV-B
Doppler Effect
Period
Wave
Electromagnetic
Pitch
Wavelength
Fluorescence
Point Source Interference
X-Ray
Frequency
Polarization
Gamma Ray
Pulse