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AQA GCSE Physics Unit 6: Waves - Properties, Reflection, Refraction, and Applications, Schemes and Mind Maps of Physics

Physics

A comprehensive overview of wave properties, including transverse and longitudinal waves, reflection, and refraction. it details practical investigations on measuring wave characteristics and explores applications like sonar and seismic waves. The text also covers the electromagnetic spectrum and black body radiation, making it a valuable resource for high school physics students.

Typology: Schemes and Mind Maps

2024/2025

Uploaded on 04/24/2025

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AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6: Waves
Transverse and Longitudinal Waves Properties of Waves
The frequency of a wave is the number of waves which pass a given point
every second.
time period (s) = 1 ÷ frequency (Hz)
t = 1 ÷ f
The wave speed is how quickly the energy is transferred through a medium
(how quickly the wave travels).
wave speed (m/s) = frequency (Hz) × wavelength (m)
v = f × λ
The speed of sound waves travelling through air can be measured by a
simple method. One person stands a measured distance from a large flat
wall, e.g. 100m. The person then claps and another person measures the
time taken to hear the echo. The speed of the sound can then be
calculated using the equation
speed = distance × time.
Remember the distance will be double because the wave has travelled to
the wall and back again. It is important to take several measurements and
calculate the average to reduce the likelihood of human error.
Sound Waves in Different Medium
How quickly sound waves can travel through a medium is determined by the
density of the medium (material).
Sound waves will travel faster through a solid than a liquid as the spaces
between the particles are smaller. This means that the vibrations and energy
can be passed along the particles more quickly. In a gas, the transmission of
sound is even slower as the space between the particles is greater.
The speed of sound in air is 330m/s.
Required Practical Investigation 8
Aim: make observations and identify the suitability of apparatus to measure
the frequency, wavelength and speed of waves in a ripple tank and waves in
a solid, and take appropriate
measurements.
The ripple tank apparatus
shown is the most commonly
used for this investigation. It is
likely you will work in groups
or observe the investigation
as a demonstration by your
teacher.
Method (assuming the
apparatus is already set-up):
Turn on the power and observe the waves. Make any necessary adjustments
to the equipment so that the waves are clear to observe (alter the voltage
supplying the motor). N.B. The lowest frequency setting on the motor will
ensure that the waves measurements can be made more easily.
To measure the wavelength, use the metre ruler and make an estimate quickly.
You may want to use a stroboscope and freeze the wave patterns to make
measurements.
Record 10 wavelengths and calculate the average value.
Waves can be either transverse or longitudinal.
In a transverse wave, the vibrations are at a right angle
(perpendicular) to the direction of the energy transfer. The
wave has peaks (or crests) and troughs. Examples include
water waves and light waves.
In a longitudinal wave, the vibrations are in the same
direction (parallel) as the energy transfer. The wave has
areas of compression and rarefaction. Examples of this type
of wave are sound waves.
When a wave travels, energy is transferred but the matter
itself does not move. Particles of water or air vibrate and
transfer energy but do not move with the wave.
This can be shown by placing
a cork in a tank of water and
generating ripples across the
surface. The cork will bob up and
down on the oscillations of the
wave but will not travel across
the tank.
Lamphouse
Water
Straight wave dipper
Eccentric motor
White screen
To battery
& rheostat
Rubber
band
one wavelength
Transverse waves
Compression Rarefaction
Longitudinal waves
Wave
direction
Hand
motion
Hand
motion
one wavelength
direction of wave movement
amplitude
trough
crest amplitude
direction
of the
transverse
wave
oscillation
frequency
in Hz
= oscillasions
per second
frequency
in Hz
= waves passing a
given point per second
visit twinkl.com
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AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6: Waves Transverse and Longitudinal Waves Properties of Waves

The every second. time period (s) = 1 ÷ frequency (Hz) frequency of a wave is the number of waves which pass a given point t = 1 ÷ f The (how quickly the wave travels). wave speed is how quickly the energy is transferred through a medium wave speed (m/s) = frequency (Hz) × wavelength v = f × The speed of λ sound waves travelling through air (m) can be measured by a simple method. One person stands a measured distance from a large flat wall, e.g. 100m. The person then claps and another person measures the time taken to hear the echo. The speed of the sound can then be calculated using the equation speed = distance × time Remember the distance will be double because the the wall and back again. It is important to take several measurements and calculate the average to reduce the likelihood of human error.. wave has travelled to

Sound Waves in Different Medium How quickly sound waves can travel through a medium is determined by the density of the medium (material).

Sound waves will travel faster through a solid than a liquid as the spaces between the particles are smaller. This means that the can be passed along the particles more quickly. In a gas, the transmission of sound is even slower as the space between the particles is greater. vibrations and energy

The speed of sound in air is 330m/s. Required Practical Investigation 8 Aim: make observations and identify the suitability of apparatus to measure

the frequency, wavelength and speed of waves in a ripple tank and waves in a measurements. The solid, ripple and (^) tank take (^) appropriate apparatus shown is the most commonly used for this investigation. It is likely you will work in groups or observe the investigation as teacher. Method apparatus is already set-up): a demonstration (assuming the by your Turn on the power and observe to the equipment so that the waves are clear to observe (alter the voltage supplying the motor). ensure that the waves measurements can be made more easily. N.B. The lowest frequency setting on the motor will the waves. Make any necessary adjustments To measure the You may want to use a measurements. Record 10 wavelengths wavelength and calculate the stroboscope , use the metre ruler and make an estimate quickly. and freeze the wave patterns to make average value.

Waves can be either In a transverse wave, the vibrations are at a right angle ( wave has perpendicular peaks ) to the direction of the energy transfer. The (or crests) and transverse or troughs longitudinal. Examples include. water waves and light waves. In direction ( areas of of wave are a longitudinal compressionparallel sound waves (^) ) as thewave, and. (^) rarefaction the energy transfer. The wave has vibrations. Examples of this type are in the same

When a wave travels, energy is transferred but the matter itself does not move. Particles of water or air vibrate and transfer energy but do not move with the wave. This can be shown by placing a cork in a tank of generating surface. The cork will bob up and down on the ripples oscillations acrosswater and of the the wave but will not travel across the tank.

Lamphouse Eccentric motor Straight wave dipper Water White screen

Rubber band^ To battery^ & rheostat

Transverse waves^ one wavelength Compression Longitudinal waves Rarefaction

motion^ Hand direction Wave

motion^ Hand

one wavelength trough direction of wave movement amplitude crest transverse oscillation^ direction^ of the wave amplitude^ frequency^ in Hz^ frequency in Hz^ given point per second^ = waves passing a^ = oscillasions per second

AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6: Waves Required Practical Investigation 8 (continued)

Required Practical Investigation 9 Aim: investigate the reflection of light by different types of surface and the refraction of light by different substances.

Method: 1. 2. In a darkened room, set up the ray box on a flat surface and insert the filter to produce a single ray of light.Place a glass block in the centre of a piece of plain A3 paper.

      1. Draw a lineDraw a line at 90°C to the glass block and label the line in the diagram.Position the ray box so the ray of light hits the glass at an angle. around the glass block. normal, as shown
    1. Using a pencil, draw the incidence, reflected and emergent rays as shown in the diagram.Remove the glass block and draw the refracted ray going through the block.

To measure the wave count answer by 10 to find the number of Record 10 frequencies the number of waves which pass the point within (^) frequency and calculate the, mark a given point onto the white paper and waves per second average value.. 10 seconds. Divide your To calculate the wave speed, this formula: speed = frequency × wavelength use Remember: the distance between one peak (or crest) of a wave and the next peak. the wavelength is

    1. Using a protractor, measure the angles of incidence, reflection and refraction. Record your results.Repeat the experiment by placing a clear acrylic block on the A3 paper in the same position as the glass block.
    1. The incident ray must follow the same line as before. Draw the reflected and refracted rays and measure using a protractor.Collect four sets of results from other members of the class. The law of reflection states: angle of incidence = angle of reflection

Risk assessment: The To prevent this, you should not touch the lamp and ensure you allow time for the ray box to cool after use. ray box will become hot during use and may cause minor burns. You will be working in a semi-dark environment which means there is a higher risk of trips or falls. You should ensure your working space is clear of bags and coats, and that stools are tucked under desks before you start your investigation.

Required Practical Investigation 10 Aim: radiation absorbed or radiated by a surface depends on the nature of that surface. investigate how the amount of infrared

In this investigation, you are finding out which type of surface emits the most • • dark and mattdark and shiny infrared radiation:

- • Method light and mattlight and shiny: 1. 2. 3. Place theOnce the kettle has boiled, fill the Leslie cube with hot water.Ensuring Leslie cube that the on a heatproof mat. thermometer or the infrared from each of the surfaces (in turn) on the Leslie cube, measure the amount of infrared radiation emitted. detector is an equal distance 4. Repeat the experiment twice more to collect three results for each surface.

AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6: Waves Volcanoes, earthquakes and explosions to travel through the earth. There are two different types of seismic waves: S-waves and P-waves. cause seismic waves

  • • P-waves quickly through solids and liquids.S-waves are transverse waves and they travel only in solids. are longitudinal waves which travel slower and relatively Seismic waves can or or gas). The calculating the difference in time taken for S- and P-waves to refracted at the boundary of different media (solid, liquid epicentre change direction of an earthquake can be found by when they are reflected reach a certain point. Since the waves can change direction, at least three points are used to pinpoint the source (where they all intercept). The study of seismic waves has given scientists new triangulate the data and evidence about the structure of the earth in parts which are not visible for direct observations. Ultrasound frequency than the range which is detectable by the human waves are sound waves which have a higher ear. When the waves reach a boundary between different media, they are measure the time taken and calculate the distance. Ultrasound is used for medical partially reflected and industrial imaging and a detector is used to.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum Electromagnetic waves form a continuous spectrum known as the vacuum as well as air. transfer energy from a source to an electromagnetic spectrum absorber as. Each of the frequencies of waves travel at the same transverse waves. The different waves are grouped depending on their velocity and can pass through a frequency and

You can remember the order of the Roman men invented very unusual X-ray guns. electromagnetic spectrum easily with the phrase:

Frequency Low Wave Use Other Information

High

radio waves microwaves Communication via television and radio, and satellite communications.Communications including satellite Easily direction. Harmless if absorbed by the human body. Are reflected back off the atmosphere and cannot pass through into space. transmitted through air and can be reflected to change their infrared communications and cooking food.Short-range communications (remote controls), electrical heaters, cooking food, optical fibres,^ When the molecules absorb microwaves, their internal energy increases.^ This can be harmful when internal body cells become heated by over^ exposure to microwaves. Can pass through the atmosphere and into space. visible light ultraviolet security systems and thermal imaging cameras.Used for lighting, photography and fibre optics.Sterilising water and killing bacteria. Detecting forged bank notes. It can cause burns to skin.Frequency range that is detectable by the human eye. Causes skin tanning and can lead to burns or skin cancer. X-rays gamma rays Medical imaging and airport security scanners.Sterilising medical equipment or food and treatment for some cancers. Very little energy is absorbed by body tissues. Instead, it is transmitted through the body. These waves can lead to gene mutation and cancer. Photo courtesy of (@wikimedia.org) - granted under creative commons licence – attribution Page 4 of 7 visit twinkl.com

AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6: Waves Properties of Electromagnetic Waves Radio Waves (Higher tier only) Oscillations in electrical circuits can produce radio waves which when absorbed by a conductor, produce an

alternating current The alternating current has the same transmission. This is how. television and frequency radio are broadcast. as the radio wave and so information can be coded for

Visible Light

The colours of the (red – orange – yellow – green – blue – indigo – violet). These are all the range of wavelength and frequency within the spectrum. wavelengths visible spectrum which are visible and detectable by the can be remembered with the rhyme human eye Richard O. Each colour has a narrow f York Gave Battle In Vain White light spectrum. is the combination (full spectrum) of wavelengths in the visible light region of the electromagnetic

Temperature of the Earth (Higher tier only) The temperature of the earth depends on: • The rate at which light radiation and infrared radiation are absorbed by the earth’s surface and atmosphere.

  • Light and infrared radiation absorbed by the earth cause the turn, the surface of the earth The rate at which light radiation and increases in temperature infrared radiation are. internal energyemitted by the earth’s surface of the planet to and increase atmosphere and in. Energy from the surface of the earth can be transferred to the atmosphere by The into infraredspace or it will be radiation emittedabsorbed from the earth’s surface will either travel through the atmosphere and back (and reflected ) by the greenhouse gases in the earth’s atmosphere. conduction and convection.

You should be able to complete or construct a of a different medium. As the wave moves from gas to solid), it slows down and bends so to a more dense medium (e.g. ray diagram to show how a wave is refracted at the boundary that the angle from the normal becomes smaller. The angle of incidence is larger than the angle of refraction. As the wave moves from a more dense medium (e.g. from solid to gas), it speeds up and bends so that the angle from the normal becomes larger. The angle of refraction is larger than the angle of incidence. The angle at which a wave enters the glass block is equal to the angle that it leaves the glass block (when entering and leaving the same medium); however, if a wave crosses a boundary between two mediums at an angle of 90˚C, then it will not change direction but instead carry on in a straight line. Gamma rays radiation and the waves can be generated and absorbed across a wide range of frequencies. UV, X-rays to human body tissues. The severity of the damage caused depends on the dose of radiation a tissue or cell is and occur as the result of changes to the nuclei of atoms and atoms themselves. It is a form of gamma are all types of radiation and can be harmful to human health; they cause damage exposed to. the amount of exposure and ensure they are within a X-rays and gamma rays are Radiographers and dentists who routinely carry out X-ray examinations wear a device to monitor ionising and can cause mutations safe limit to genes which may result in. cancer.

UV waves skin cancer can cause the skin to burn and age prematurely. UV exposure also increases the risk of developing.^ R^ O^ Y^ G^ B^ I^ V

air

air

glass block

AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6: Waves Lenses Lenses use refraction in order to work. Projectors, microscopes and

telescopes more easily. The distances. human eye all use lenses to allow an object or image to be enlarged or viewed contains a lens which enables us to see objects at a range of Depending on the type of produce a different image. The two main lenses are compares them briefly. convex lenseslens , the light waves will be and concave lenses refracted. The table below differently to

A image on a surface. For example, on the retina of the human eye. A be coming from a different place. A virtual image cannot be (^) virtual imagereal image is when light reflected from an object occurs when the light waves are diverging converges and so appears to projected onto a to form an screen. For example, a mirror produces a virtual image. A magnifying glass uses a converging (convex) lens. It produces a virtual image which appears larger than the actual object. The magnification calculated using the equation: can be magnification =

An In In a diverging rays aimaginary concave lensconvex lens before horizontal, the light rays enter the lens, the the lens. light line rays through enter thethe middlelens parallel parallel of (^) to one another and thenthe to lines one isanother called andthe (^) diverge then axis (^) converge and. The principal focus is the virtual source of the this (^) atis thewhere principal the principal focus after focus the forms. lens.

power (D) = • • D stands for dioptres which is the unit of measurement for lens power.In a converging lens the power is a positive value.

  • Focal length depends on two factors: the makes the lens In a diverging flatter lens the power is a in shape. To make a powerful lens thinner, a material with a higher refractive index can be used. negative refractive index value. of a material and how curved the surfaces of the lenses are. A higher refractive index Objects which are a distance than one focal length The lens equation can be used to show the relationship between focal length, position of the from the converging lens will produce a greater than one focal length away from a converging lens will produce a virtual image. object and position of the real image. Objects which image : are closer This equation can also be written as: (^1) f 1 u (^1) v

convex lens (^) Ray DiagramLens concave lens Illustration Causes parallel waves to principal focus. converge real or virtual at the Type of Image Action Causes parallel waves to principal focus. diverge always virtual from the focal length (m)^1

focal length^1 =distance between lens and object^1 distance between lens and image^1 = +

image height (mm) object height (mm)

principal focus^ concave lens

lengthfocal^ length^ focal

convex lens focal point