Tag: Waves
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Chapter 26: Electromagnetic Waves
26.1 Introduction In this chapter, we will explore electromagnetic waves, a type of wave that propagates through space as a combination of oscillating electric and magnetic fields. Electromagnetic waves are crucial in numerous applications, including communication, imaging, and remote sensing. 26.2 Properties of Electromagnetic Waves Electromagnetic waves are characterized by their frequency, wavelength, and speed.…
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Acoustic Impedance
Introduction Acoustic impedance, denoted as , is a property of a medium which defines its opposition to the propagation of acoustic waves. It is a fundamental concept in fields such as acoustics, ultrasound, sonar, and other areas where sound propagation is crucial. Definition of Acoustic Impedance Acoustic impedance is a measure of the resistance of…
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Transverse Waves
Introduction Transverse waves are waves in which the direction of displacement of the medium’s particles is perpendicular to the direction of the wave propagation. Examples of transverse waves include light waves, radio waves, and waves on a stretched string. This is in contrast to longitudinal waves for which the particle displacement is parallel to the…
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Mechanical Waves
Introduction Mechanical waves are disturbances that propagate through a material medium due to the elastic properties of the medium. These waves transfer energy from one location to another without the physical transportation of matter. Examples of mechanical waves include sound waves, water waves, and seismic waves. Fundamental Properties of Mechanical Waves The function describes the…
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Longitudinal Waves
Introduction Longitudinal waves are a type of wave in which the displacement of the medium’s particles is parallel to the propagation of the wave. They are characterized by alternating regions of compressions (areas where the particles are close together) and rarefactions (areas where the particles are far apart). Wave Parameters and Properties Wave Speed The…
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Electromagnetic Spectrum
Introduction The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation, ordered by frequency and wavelength. From lowest frequency (longest wavelength) to highest frequency (shortest wavelength), the spectrum includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Wave Properties The basic properties of electromagnetic waves can be described by the wave equation and…
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Superposition Principle
Introduction The principle of superposition is a key concept in physics and engineering, particularly in wave theory and quantum mechanics. It asserts that the net response at a given place and time caused by two or more stimuli is the sum of the responses that would have been caused by each stimulus individually. Superposition in…