K223 / K224 / 2027

Chapter 8

General properties of waves

A wave transfers energy as a disturbance travels.

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Choose a topic

  1. What travels in a wave?

    Separate particle vibration from propagation and compare transverse and longitudinal waves.

  2. Wave quantities and graphs

    Read amplitude and wavelength from a snapshot, and period and frequency from a time trace.

  3. Determining wave speed

    Connect frequency, wavelength and speed, and interpret wave measurements.

Syllabus coverage

This chapter covers General properties of waves, topic 8(a-e), in the K223 / K224 syllabus (2027).

Distinguish wave travel from particle motion and use measured spacing and timing to calculate wave speed.

Includes transverse and longitudinal waves, wave graphs and the wave equation.

View the learning outcomes
8(a)
Describe wave motion using ropes, springs and a ripple tank, including wavefronts. What travels in a wave?
8(b)
Explain wave transfer of energy without transfer of matter. What travels in a wave?
8(c)
Define and use speed, frequency, wavelength, period and amplitude, including graphical representations. Wave quantities and graphsDetermining wave speed
8(d)
Apply wave speed = frequency x wavelength in new situations. Determining wave speed
8(e)
Compare transverse and longitudinal waves and give suitable examples. What travels in a wave?