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Edexcel IGCSE Physics topic guide

Waves questions

Connect wave speed, frequency and wavelength, interpret ray diagrams, and explore how light and sound behave.

Edexcel IGCSE Physics Topic 3

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.

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Question types in waves

  1. Wave-speed, frequency, wavelength and period calculations.
  2. Ray diagrams for reflection, refraction and total internal reflection.
  3. Electromagnetic spectrum ordering, uses, hazards and protective measures.
  4. 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 Frequency, wavelength, period and wave-speed units, including oscilloscope scales. 3.b Properties of waves Transverse and longitudinal waves, wavefronts, diffraction and wave calculations. 3.c The electromagnetic spectrum The spectrum in order, visible colours, applications, hazards and communication signals. 3.d Light and sound Ray diagrams, refraction, total internal reflection and measuring sound waves.