We will define and analyse the physical magnitudes that allow us to characterise the different types of waves that exist, highlighting the importance of the nature of the physical medium in which the wave is propagating.
Physics Fundamentals: Oscillations and Waves
4 days left! Save on skills that make you shine with 40% off 3 months of Coursera Plus. Save now
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
Recommended experience
1 week to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Wave phenomena.
Influence of the physical environment on wave propagation.
Huygens' principle.
Polarization of waves.
Doppler effect.
Reflection, refraction, diffraction.
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Recently updated!
January 2026
Assessments
30 assignments
Taught in English
91% of learners achieved a positive career outcome
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
There are 7 modules in this course
Instructors
Offered by
Explore more from Physics and Astronomy
Rice University
École Polytechnique
Rice University
Rice University
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
