Unit 12- Waves

In this unit we take a look at a phenomenon in which energy is transferred from one place to another without an accompanying transfer of mass. The energy is carried by WAVES. Even though waves have no mass, we can often detect their movement by the disturbance they create in matter, weather it is waves on water, seismic waves moving the ground during an earthquake, or the vibration set up in our ear drums in response to sound waves. We will study the properties and characteristics of waves.

SPS9. Students will investigate the properties of waves.
a. Recognize that all waves transfer energy.
b. Relate frequency and wavelength to the energy of different kinds of electromagnetic waves and mechanical waves.
c. Compare and contrast the characteristics of electromagnetic and mechanical (sound) waves.
d. Relate the speed of sound to different mediums.
e. Explain the Doppler Effect in terms of everyday interactions.

Specific Assignments:

Assignment 1: As an introduction to the world of waves, carefully watch the following video. As you watch, take notes and complete the vocabulary worksheet (click here to see vocabulary worksheet). Pause the video as needed to give yourself time to write down definitions or an explanation. Afterwords, be prepared to discuss your answers with the class.



Assignment 2: Mini-lecture -- Waves and their properties. This lecture compares and contrasts the characteristics of mechanical vs. electromagnetic waves and transverse vs. longitudinal waves. This information is also summarized in the following short videos.





Assignment 3: Apply what you have learned about waves so far to complete questions 1 through 7 of the Waves - worksheet (click here to see Waves worksheet). Ask for help if you still have difficulty answering a question or understanding a concept.

Assignement4: Mini-lecture -- Reflection, Refraction, and Diffraction. Continue to fill-in the vocabulary worksheet as we go and then, afterwords, complete question 8 of the Waves Worksheet.

Assignment 5: Wave Interference - mini-lecture and class discussion -- Take notes.

Click here to see power point version of this mini-lecture.

Assignment 6: Watch Video below to review The Doppler Effect. Afterwords, complete any unfinished parts of the vocabulary worksheet and the remaining questions on the Waves Worksheet.



Quiz: Waves. The quiz will include all the characteristics and properties we studies in the lessons above. Prepare for the quiz by reviewing the vocabulary words, waves worksheet, lecture notes and especially the short videos.