Edexcel IGCSE Physics topic guide
Edexcel IGCSE Physics Waves questions
Waves brings together wave measurements, reflection, refraction, the electromagnetic spectrum, light and sound. It tests both precise diagrams and quantitative relationships.
Waves topic overview
Waves brings together wave measurements, reflection, refraction, the electromagnetic spectrum, light and sound. It tests both precise diagrams and quantitative relationships.
Label wave quantities and normals before calculating, draw rays with a ruler, and connect each wave behaviour to its frequency, wavelength, speed or application.
Question types in waves
- Wave-speed, frequency, wavelength and period calculations.
- Ray diagrams for reflection, refraction and total internal reflection.
- Electromagnetic spectrum ordering, uses, hazards and protective measures.
- Practical questions on refraction, sound speed, frequency and oscilloscope traces.
Waves subtopics
Choose a subtopic for its syllabus points, answering guidance and worked exam questions.
3.a Units
3.1 use the following units: degree (°), hertz (Hz), metre (m), metre/second (m/s) and second (s)
3.b Properties of waves
3.2 explain the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves
3.c The electromagnetic spectrum
3.10 know that light is part of a continuous electromagnetic spectrum that includes radio, microwave, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, x-ray and gamma ray radiations, and that all these waves travel at the same speed in free space
3.d Light and sound
3.14 know that light waves are transverse waves and that they can be reflected and refracted