SAT Subject Test in Physics

The SAT Subject Test in Physics assesses students' understanding of physics concepts and their ability to apply these concepts to solve problems.

Advanced Topics

Waves and Sound

Moving Vibrations

Waves are disturbances that transfer energy from place to place—think water ripples, sound, or even light! Sound is a type of mechanical wave that moves through air (or other materials).

Wave Properties

  • Wavelength: Distance between crests.
  • Frequency: How many waves pass per second.
  • Amplitude: The “height” of the wave, related to energy.

Sound Waves

Sound is a longitudinal wave—particles vibrate back and forth, not up and down.

Applications

Waves help us understand music, earthquakes, and even how your cell phone works!

Key Formula

\[v = f \lambda\]

Examples

  • Tuning a guitar changes the frequency (pitch) of the sound waves.

  • Sonar uses sound waves to map the ocean floor.

In a Nutshell

Waves transfer energy, and sound is a special kind of wave we hear.

Key Terms

Frequency
The number of wave cycles per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
Amplitude
The maximum displacement from rest, related to the energy of the wave.