Properties of Waves

Summary and Exam Tips for Properties of Waves

Properties of Waves is a subtopic of Waves, which falls under the subject Physics in the Edexcel IGCSE curriculum. Waves can be categorized into transverse and longitudinal types, demonstrated using ropes and springs, respectively. The wave speed ($v$) is the rate at which energy moves through a medium, calculated as the product of frequency ($f$) and wavelength ($\lambda$), expressed as $v = f\lambda$. Key properties include amplitude, the maximum displacement of particles, and frequency, the number of oscillations per unit time.

Transverse waves have perpendicular displacement to wave propagation and can travel through solids and liquids, but not gases. Examples include electromagnetic waves and ripples on water. Longitudinal waves have parallel displacement and can move through gases, liquids, and solids, characterized by compressions and rarefactions, such as sound waves.

Reflection occurs when waves bounce off a surface, maintaining speed and wavelength, while refraction involves a change in speed and direction when entering a different medium. The Doppler Effect describes the change in frequency and wavelength due to the motion of the wave source, observed in phenomena like the change in pitch of a passing siren.

Exam Tips

• Understand Key Equations: Remember $v = f\lambda$ for wave speed calculations. Use correct symbols like $\lambda$ for wavelength.
• Units Matter: Ensure units are consistent, e.g., converting cm to m or kHz to Hz when necessary.
• Differentiate Wave Types: Know the differences between transverse and longitudinal waves, especially their movement through different media.
• Doppler Effect: Be able to explain how motion affects wave frequency and wavelength, using real-world examples like ambulance sirens.
• Reflection and Refraction: Practice drawing wave diagrams, ensuring angles of incidence and reflection are equal, and understand how refraction changes wave direction and speed.