| A | B |
|---|
| node | A region of zero displacement |
| reflection | A wave is turned back at a barrier |
| inversion | A waves undergoes a 180 degree phase change |
| refraction | An apparent bending of the waves as it travels from one medium to another |
| longitudinal | Direction of propagation of the wave is parallel to the direction of vibration of the wave particles |
| transverse | Direction of propagation of the wave is perpendicular to the direction of vibration of the wave particles |
| amplitude | Distance from a crest to equilibrium |
| rarefaction | Region where molecules are spread apart in a longitudinal wave |
| compression | Region where molecules are squashed together in a longitudinal wave |
| wavelength | The distance between consecutive crests or compressions |
| trough | The lowest point of a transverse wave |
| crest | The highest point of a transverse wave |
| superposition | The mathematical or graphical process of combining two waves |
| frequency | The number of repetitions in a period of time |
| diffraction | The spreading of a wave disturbance beyond a barrier |
| period | The time to complete one cycle or repetition. |
| constructive interference | Two waves meet and produce a displacement that is greater than either of the initial waves |
| destructive interference | Two waves meet and produce a displacement that is smaller than either of the initial waves |
| standing waves | Wave formed by the interference of two waves of the same amplitude and wavelength travelling in opposite directions |
| rectilinear propagation | Waves travel in straight lines perpendicular to the wave front |
