wave theory

Also called undulatory theory. Physics. the theory that light is transmitted as a wave, similar to oscillations in magnetic and electric fields. Compare corpuscular theory.


Dictionary.com Unabridged
Cite This Source Link To wave theory
World English Dictionary
wave theory
1.  the theory proposed by Huygens that light is transmitted by waves
2.  See electromagnetic wave any theory that light or other radiation is transmitted as waves

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition
Cite This Source
Example sentences
It led to the development of the wave theory of light and the electromagnetic
  spectrum, and it underlies quantum mechanics.
And this wave theory is not what is happening so stop searching doom websites
  to predict a coming disaster.
The instrument of its revival was the wave theory of light.
Kinematic wave theory is used for routing flows over contributing overland-flow
  areas and through the channel network.
Copyright © 2014 Dictionary.com, LLC. All rights reserved.
  • Please Login or Sign Up to use the Recent Searches feature