Waves and the Electromagnetic Spectrum

WAVES A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy from place to place. All mechanical waves move through a medium; for example sound waves move through air.

Two types of waves Longitudinal - particles move back and forth like a slinky Transverse waves – waves move up and down

Frequency is the number of waves produced in a given amount of time Frequency is the number of waves produced in a given amount of time. High frequency means more energy and low frequency is less

The Electromagnetic Wave An electromagnetic wave is a disturbance in electric and magnetic fields.

RedOrangeYellowGreenBlueIndigoViolet Visible light is a small portion of this spectrum. This is the only part of this energy range that our eyes can detect. What we see is a rainbow of colors. RedOrangeYellowGreenBlueIndigoViolet ROY G BIV

Which color of visible light has the lowest frequency Which color of visible light has the lowest frequency? Which color of visible light has the highest frequency?

LIGHT Light is a kind of energy that travels in waves. Light can pass through some things, but not others.

Transparent Objects that let all light pass through are called transparent. Examples: clear glass, eyeglasses, window, fish tank, clear plastics, and transparent tape.

TRANSLUCENT An object that lets some light pass through is called translucent. Examples: waxed paper, sunglasses, frosted glass, and thin fabrics.

OPAQUE An object that lets NO light pass through is called opaque. Examples: rock, metal, wood, fog, aluminum foil, thick paper, and brick.

Reflection Reflection is when light or an image bounces back off an object’s surface. Light can bounce back off an opaque object.

Refraction The change in direction of a wave as it passes from one medium into another at an angle Start 2A here

Must show where the light hits and Exits the glass. Where could it exit? AIR A. B. Water C. Light