undulatory theory

American  

noun

Physics.

1. wave theory.

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Etymology

Origin of undulatory theory

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

undulatory theory

This result seemed to favour the undulatory theory; but the objection urged by Newton that rays of light do not bend round obstacles, like waves of sound, still held its ground.

From Heroes of Science: Physicists by Garnett, William

Now, it seems to us that there is quite as much of hypothesis in this speculation of Laplace as in the undulatory theory of light.

From Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, No. CCCXXXVI. October, 1843. Vol. LIV. by Various

Thus it can be seen that the elasticity of the Aether, so essential to the undulatory theory, is a problem that cannot be solved apart from recognizing the hypothesis of an atomic Aether.

From Aether and Gravitation by Hooper, William George

Now the question suggests itself to our mind, as to what effect the atomicity of the Aether has upon the undulatory theory of light.

From Aether and Gravitation by Hooper, William George

It is sufficient, in this connection, to state that the theory of light now generally accepted, and which best explains the facts of optics, is that known as the undulatory theory.

From A Treatise on Physiology and Hygiene For Educational Institutions and General Readers by Hutchison, Joseph Chrisman