Radio Waves (Edexcel GCSE Combined Science) : Revision Note

Katie M

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Katie M

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Radio Waves

Higher Tier Only

  • Radio waves can be produced by connecting an antenna to a high frequency alternating current (a.c.) power source

    • The oscillation of charge in the a.c. circuit produces radio waves with the same frequency of oscillation

Radio waves are produced by high-frequency alternating currents and induce similar currents when they are received

  • In the transmitting antenna:

    • The charge from the alternating current oscillates up and down the antenna

    • This produces radio waves that can be absorbed by a similar aerial some distance away

  • In a receiving aerial:

    • The metal aerial absorbs the radio waves

    • This creates an alternating current with the same frequency as the transmitted wave

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Katie M

Author: Katie M

Expertise: Physics Content Creator

Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.

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