Wave Propagation

Wave propagation: disturbance travels through a medium, transferring energy WITHOUT transferring matter.

Particles oscillate locally; the WAVE PATTERN moves at v = ω/k = fλ.

Wave nature is preserved: same A, f, ω as it propagates (in non-dispersive, lossless medium).

Reflection at boundary: fixed end → inverted reflection. Free end → erect reflection.

Refraction: wave speed changes when entering a new medium ⇒ wavelength changes (frequency stays).

Diffraction: bending around obstacles or through apertures. Significant when aperture size ≈ wavelength.

Superposition: when two waves meet, displacements ADD (algebraic). Each then continues independently.

Wave equation: ∂²y/∂t² = v²·∂²y/∂x² — satisfied by any traveling-wave solution.