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Waves

This study guide is intended to help you complete notes and revision for the waves section of GCSE.

(a) Visit the Learn Website. Read through the revision notes on Waves and answer the following questions. Finally, try the revision test !

1. What is the main difference between a Longitudinal and Transverse wave ? Sketch a diagram and give an example of each.

2. Read through the section called ‘Terminology’ and make sure you understand the words we use to describe a wave. Write out an equation which relates wave speed, frequency and wavelength.

3. Write a sentence and a sketch diagram to distinguish between Reflection, Refraction and Diffraction.

4. What is Ultrasound ? Name four applications of ultrasound.

5. List the six main properties of Electromagnetic waves.

(b) Now visit the suggested Websites to complete the following table :

Type of Radiation

Origin

Typical Application

Radio

High frequency oscillations of electrons

 
 

High frequency oscillations of electrons

Warm food / Transmit mobile phone calls

Infrared

Hot objects

 
 

Very hot objects

Sight

Ultraviolet

Special Sun Lamps

 

X-Rays

   

 

 

Cancer treatment

Suggested Websites:

 

Now go to BBC Bitesize to complete the ‘jumbled-up’ table of the E.M. Spectrum.