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7 Waves
An understanding of colour from Cambridge IGCSE/O Level Physics or equivalent is assumed.
7.1 Progressive waves
Candidates should be able to:
1 describe what is meant by wave motion as illustrated by vibration in ropes, springs and ripple tanks
2 understand and use the terms displacement, amplitude, phase difference, period, frequency,
wavelength and speed
3 understand the use of the time-base and y-gain of a cathode-ray oscilloscope (CRO) to determine
frequency and amplitude
4 derive, using the definitions of speed, frequency and wavelength, the wave equation v = f λ
5 recall and use v = f λ
6 understand that energy is transferred by a progressive wave
7 recall and use intensity = power/area and intensity ∝ (amplitude)
2
for a progressive wave
7.2 Transverse and longitudinal waves
Candidates should be able to:
1 compare transverse and longitudinal waves
2
