characteristics of a wave

Classification

• Waves can be classified in several different waves. One type of wave, known as a mechanical wave requires a material to travel through. EX: sound waves, water waves, and even seismic waves
• Electromagnetic waves do not require a medium or material to travel through. Electromagnetic waves are considered a part of the Electromagnetic Spectrum. EX: radio waves, microwaves, light

Characteristics

• A pulse is a single disturbance which can carry energy throughout something.
• When a pulse or wave reaches a tough or hard boundary, it is reflected and it inverted.
• When a pulse or a wave reaches a flexible boundary, it is still reflected, but not inverted.

Vibrations and Waves

• Vibrations are continuous motions around a certain position. When something vibrates, it puts out a motion that repeats itself.
• Waves are formed by the vibration of an object or substance that will carry a wave. All waves are formed by a simple vibration which triggers the creation of a wave like movement.

Waves in a diagram

• A full wave cycle is defined as that portion of the wave between two crests or between two troughs in any given amount of time. By seeing how troughs and crests lineup, you can see how a full wave cycle takes a distinct amount of time.

Bow waves

• A bow wave is a specific disturbance created through something, typically water. Sometimes air can be displaced by an object moving through it, same as water.
• A bow wave is specifically the small waves that are produced at the sides of the front of the boat, while moving in a forward motion.