iGCSE Physics - 3.1 General Properties of Waves

This Powerpoint specifically covers all criteria for –
Unit 3.1 General Properties of Waves

Know that waves transfer energy without transferring matter

Describe what is meant by wave motion as illustrated by vibrations in ropes and springs, and by experiments using water waves

Describe the features of a wave in terms of wavefront, wavelength, frequency, crest (peak), trough, amplitude and wave speed

Recall and use the equation for wave speed
v = fλ

Know that for a transverse wave, the direction of vibration is at right angles to the direction of propagation and understand that electromagnetic radiation, water waves and seismic S-waves (secondary) can be modelled as transverse

Know that for a longitudinal wave, the direction of vibration is parallel to the direction of propagation and understand that sound waves and seismic P-waves (primary) can be modelled as longitudinal

Describe how waves can undergo:
(a) reflection at a plane surface
(b) refraction due to a change of speed
© diffraction through a narrow gap

Describe the use of a ripple tank to show:
(a) reflection at a plane surface
(b) refraction due to a change in speed caused
by a change in depth
© diffraction due to a gap
(d) diffraction due to an edge

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