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IGCSEScienceEdexcelScience (Double Award)PhysicsRevision Notes3. WavesReflection & RefractionLight & Sound Waves

Light & Sound Waves (Edexcel IGCSE Science (Double Award)): Revision Note

Exam code: 4SD0

Katie M

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Katie M

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Edexcel Science (Double Award): PhysicsEdexcel Physics

Light

Representing a transverse wave

Transverse wave diagram, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Light waves are transverse: the particles vibrate in a perpendicular direction to the energy transfer

Sound

  • Longitudinal waves are usually drawn as several lines to show that the wave is moving parallel to the direction of energy transfer

    • Drawing the lines closer together represents the compressions

    • Drawing the lines further apart represents the rarefactions

Representing a longitudinal wave

Longitudinal wave diagram, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Longitudinal waves are represented as sets of lines with rarefactions and compressions

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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.