A wave pulse refers to a single, localized disturbance or variation that travels through a medium. Unlike a continuous wave, which consists of a regular oscillation repeating over time, a wave pulse is a single disturbance or "packet" of energy that propagates through a medium.
When a wave pulse passes through a medium, it causes a temporary displacement of the particles or disturbance in the medium. This disturbance then propagates outward from its source, carrying energy but not necessarily transferring any matter.
A wave pulse can have various shapes and characteristics depending on the type of wave and the specific conditions. For example, a pulse can have a specific amplitude (the magnitude of the disturbance), duration (the time over which the disturbance occurs), and shape profile.
After a wave pulse passes through a medium, it can undergo different phenomena like reflection, refraction, or dispersion, depending on the properties of the medium it encounters. These interactions can cause the pulse to change its shape or behavior.
Overall, a wave pulse represents a localized and transient disturbance or variation that travels through a medium, carrying energy but not continuously oscillating like a regular wave.