Waves and Energy
Why do waves matter?
Waves and properties of waves explain the movement of water, vibrations of strings and springs,
propagation of sound and behavior of light as well as may other behaviors in nature. In some
areas of the world wave energy is being converted to electricity.
What are waves?
Waves are disturbances or vibrations caused by the movement of energy from a source through
some medium (solid, liquid or gas). Waves transmit energy, not mass and have characteristic
properties by which they can be described. Ocean waves provide an excellent example of how
waves carry and transfer energy.
To totally define a wave we must include frequency (the number of vibrations or oscillations in a
given time), amplitude (displacement from the rest position), period (time for one complete
oscillation) and wavelength (distance between successive similar points).
What are some student misconceptions about waves?
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The material of the wave travels in the direction of the wave propagation.
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Often frequency is thought of in terms of time units and students confuse it with period.
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The motion of the medium up and down for water waves is frequently confused with the
motion of the wave itself.
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Matter moves along with water waves as the waves move through a body of water.
• When waves interact with a solid surface, the waves are destroyed.
Basic tutorials with video and animations:
http://www.kqed.org/quest/television/view/249
http://paws.kettering.edu/~drussell/Demos/waves/wavemotion.html
http://www.onr.navy.mil/focus/ocean/motion/waves1.htm
What do we hope you will take away from the workshop?
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Ability to explain the characteristics of waves and relationship between waves and energy. An understanding of physical and behavior adaptations of organisms to living in a wave environment. Ability to create a model of waves and use them in teaching waves in your classroom.