Checking the Surf
Figure 1. An illustration of tsunami waves.Copyright National Environment Agency, Singapore, http://app.nea.gov.sg/cms/htdocs/article.asp?pid=1085#whattunami
This lesson introduces the concepts of wavelength and amplitude in transverse waves. In the associated activity, students use ropes and their bodies to investigate different wavelengths and amplitudes.
Engineers use wavelengths and amplitude to quantify different types of waves. They have developed tsunami detection devices to help warn people of the approach of a tsunami, which can be very dangerous — oftentimes destroying entire coastal communities. The amplitude of an ocean wave is typically 2 to 3 meters, but an undersea earthquake can create tsunamis with amplitudes greater than 10 meters. Engineers must have a good understanding of how waves can amplify under what conditions to create technology to help prevent disaster and even death.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Define wavelength.
- Define amplitude.
- Draw and label the wavelength and amplitude of a wave.