Reflection of a Wave: Amplitude, Frequency, Velocity

In summary, when a wave is reflected from a mirror, there is no change in its amplitude, frequency, or velocity. However, the color of the light can change if the frequency changes. The speed of light, c, is constant in a vacuum but can vary in different mediums. The refractive index, c/v, is a measure of this change. The wavelength, \lambda, is equal to the velocity, v, divided by the frequency, f.
  • #1
adulapuram
1
0

Homework Statement



1. When a wave is reflected from a mirror, there is no change in its
a) Amplitude b) Frequency c) Velocity d) All

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



I think frequency changes,not sure
 
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  • #2
i guess all
 
  • #3
tip 1: If the frequency changes, the color of the light changes.
tip 2: the speed of light, c, is constant under all circumstances.
tip 3: [tex]\lambda = \frac{c}{f}[/tex]
 
  • #4
timon said:
tip 1: If the frequency changes, the color of the light changes.
tip 2: the speed of light, c, is constant under all circumstances.
tip 3: [tex]\lambda = \frac{c}{f}[/tex]

c is not constant in all circumstances.
it remains same in same medium
and it is c only in vacuum not in air
 
  • #5
timon said:
tip 2: the speed of light, c, is constant under all circumstances.
tip 3: [tex]\lambda = \frac{c}{f}[/tex]

The speed of light depends of the medium. The ratio c/v is called the refractive index. The wavelenght is v/f.

ehild
 

FAQ: Reflection of a Wave: Amplitude, Frequency, Velocity

What is the relationship between amplitude and energy in a wave?

The amplitude of a wave is directly proportional to the energy it carries. This means that the higher the amplitude, the more energy the wave has. Amplitude is measured as the distance from the midpoint of the wave to its peak or trough.

How does frequency affect the properties of a wave?

Frequency is the number of wave cycles that pass a certain point in one second. It affects the wavelength and energy of a wave. Higher frequency waves have shorter wavelengths and carry more energy. Frequency is also related to the pitch of a sound wave and the color of a light wave.

What is the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

In a longitudinal wave, the particles of the medium vibrate in the same direction as the wave is traveling. An example of this is a sound wave. In a transverse wave, the particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of the wave. An example of this is a light wave.

How does the velocity of a wave relate to its frequency and wavelength?

The velocity of a wave is equal to the product of its frequency and wavelength. This means that as frequency increases, so does the velocity, while wavelength decreases. This relationship is described by the equation v = fλ, where v is velocity, f is frequency, and λ is wavelength.

How do waves reflect off of different surfaces?

When a wave encounters a boundary or barrier, it can reflect, or bounce back. The angle at which the wave reflects is equal to the angle at which it hits the surface. The type of reflection, whether it is regular or diffuse, depends on the smoothness of the surface. Smooth surfaces produce regular reflection, while rough surfaces produce diffuse reflection.

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