AQA GCSE HIGHER PHYSICS - Wave Properties and Types

AQA GCSE Higher Physics: Wave Properties and Types

This tutorial will cover the essential properties of waves, including amplitude, wavelength, frequency, and speed. We will also explore the different types of waves.

What is a Wave?

A wave is a disturbance that travels through a medium or space, transferring energy without transferring matter. Think of a ripple in a pond – the water itself doesn't move very far, but the disturbance (the ripple) travels across the surface.

Wave Properties

• Amplitude: The maximum displacement of a wave from its rest position. In other words, how "tall" the wave is.

• Wavelength: The distance between two corresponding points on successive waves. For example, the distance between two crests or two troughs.

• Frequency: The number of complete waves passing a point in one second. Measured in Hertz (Hz).

• Speed: How fast the wave is travelling. Determined by the medium it travels through.

Key Relationship:

The speed of a wave (v) is related to its wavelength (?) and frequency (f) by the equation:

v = f?

Types of Waves

1. Transverse Waves:

• The particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of wave travel.
• Examples: Light waves, electromagnetic waves, waves on a string.

2. Longitudinal Waves:

• The particles of the medium vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel.
• Examples: Sound waves, seismic P-waves.

Summary

• Waves transfer energy without transferring matter.
• Amplitude, wavelength, frequency, and speed are key properties of waves.
• Waves can be classified as transverse or longitudinal, depending on the direction of particle vibration.
• The speed of a wave is determined by its wavelength and frequency.

Remember:

• This tutorial is a basic introduction to wave properties.
• Further research and practice are recommended for a deeper understanding.