Name: 
 

SL-Ch.1 Study Guide



Modified True/False
Indicate whether the sentence or statement is true or false.  If false, change the identified word or phrase to make the sentence or statement true.
 

 1. 

Waves that require a medium through which to pass are called electromagnetic waves. _________________________

 

 2. 

In transverse waves, the medium moves at right angles to the direction in which the wave is traveling. _________________________

 

 3. 

The unit associated with amplitude is the hertz. _________________________

 

 4. 

Sound waves travel at different speeds in different mediums. _________________________

 

 5. 

Refraction is a bending that occurs when a wave moves from one medium to another at an angle and changes speed. _________________________

 

 6. 

Constructive interference occurs when the amplitudes of two waves combine to produce a wave with a smaller amplitude. _________________________

 

 7. 

Nodes are points on a standing wave where the amplitude of the wave is maximum. _________________________

 

 8. 

The waves produced by earthquakes are known as seismic waves. _________________________

 

 9. 

Tsunamis are huge ocean secondary waves caused by underwater earthquakes. _________________________

 

 10. 

A seismograph records the air movements caused by seismic waves. _________________________

 

Essay
 

 11. 

How does the motion of the particles of the medium differ among transverse, longitudinal, and surface waves?
 

 12. 

How can you measure the wavelength of a transverse wave? Of a longitudinal wave?
 

 13. 

Describe how to calculate each of wavelength, speed, and frequency if you know the other two factors. What is the wavelength of a 25-hertz wave traveling at 35 cm/s?
 

 14. 

Suppose that a reflected light wave has an angle of reflection of 30°. What must be the angle of incidence and what must be the angle between the reflecting surface and the incoming wave? Explain.
 

 15. 

What is interference? Describe the effect of each of the two types of wave interference on amplitude.
 

 16. 

How is it possible for a sound to shatter a glass?
 

 17. 

Why is it that S waves cannot be detected on the side of Earth opposite an earthquake?
 

 18. 

How do scientists use a seismograph to determine how far away an earthquake has occurred?
 



 
Check Your Work     Reset Help