Physics · Triple Science Higher
Waves
Spec 4.6Paper 22 required practicals12 subtopics
Subtopics
1
Transverse and Longitudinal Waves
Describe transverse and longitudinal waves and give examples of each.
2
Sound Waves and Hearing
Describe sound wave properties and explain the range of human hearing and ultrasound.
3
Waves for Detection and Exploration
Describe how waves are used for detection and exploration including seismic waves and echo sounding.
4
Properties of Waves
Define amplitude, wavelength, frequency, period and wave speed, and use v = fλ.
5
Types of Electromagnetic Waves
Describe the electromagnetic spectrum and the properties all EM waves share.
6
Properties of Electromagnetic Waves 1
Describe refraction of EM waves and construct ray diagrams at boundaries.
7
Properties of Electromagnetic Waves 2 and Hazards
Describe hazards of EM radiation and how different waves interact with matter.
8
Uses and Applications of Electromagnetic Waves
Describe the uses of each type of electromagnetic wave and explain why each type is suitable.
9
Wave Front Diagrams and Refraction
Use wave front diagrams to explain refraction and describe radio wave behaviour.
10
Lenses
Describe how converging and diverging lenses refract light and construct ray diagrams.
11
Infrared Emission, Absorption and Black Bodies
Describe infrared emission and absorption by surfaces and explain perfect black body radiation.
12
Radiation Balance and Earth's Temperature
Explain how radiation balance determines the Earth's temperature and the greenhouse effect.
Higher tier only
Reflection angle = incidence angle
Refractive index n = sin i / sin r
Triple science extension
Sound waves, hearing and ultrasound
Seismic waves and SONAR
Lenses and vision correction
Infrared emission and black bodies
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Forces
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Magnetism and Electromagnetism