Waves have characteristics that can be observed and measured. The amplitude of a wave measures how far above or below the normal level it rises, and represents how much energy the wave carries. Amplitude is half the distance between the crest and trough of a transverse wave. Wavelength is the distance between two crests or troughs, and determines properties like a light wave's color. Frequency is the number of waves that pass a point in one second, measured in hertz, with higher frequencies associated with shorter wavelengths because more waves can fit in the same space.

1. Wave Properties7SCIENCE Mon. May 9

2. ReviewWhat are the two main type of wave?Mechanical and electromagneticWhat is the difference?Mechanical waves must travel through matterHow do you describe the shape of these waves?Transverse and compressional wavesWhat are the parts of a wave?Crest, trough, amplitude and wavelengthWhat type of wave are sound waves?Mechanical, transverse

3. Wave PropertiesWaves have characteristics we can see and measureIf you see a wave in the ocean, the distance it rises above the normal level of the water is called the wave’s amplitudeAmplitude is half the distance between the crest and the trough in a transverse waveIn compressional waves, the amplitude is greater when particles are squeezed together

4. AmplitudeA wave’s amplitude measures the amount of energy the wave carries Waves with large amplitudes carry more energy than those with small amplitudesExample: bright light has a greater amplitude than dim light, and sound waves that are loud have greater amplitudes than soft sounds

5. Wavelength and FrequencyWavelength is the distance from a crest to crest or trough to trough Wavelength is important to the study of light: wavelength determines the colorThe frequency of a wave is the number of waves that pass a point in ONE secondMeasured in waves/second, called hertz (Hz)Do short wavelengths have a higher orlower frequency? Why?Why does a wave with a long wavelength have a low frequency?