wave speed = frequency × wavelength (v = f x λ)

the speed of a wave in a particular medium (material)

the number of waves produced each second. Frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz)

the distance between one wave crest (or trough) and the next

(λ) the symbol used for the wavelength of a wave

The wave equation

Combined science

In the Electromagnetic waves unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn about the reflection and refraction of light, other types of electromagnetic radiation in the EM spectrum and the helpful and harmful effects of each type of radiation.

In the Waves unit, pupils learnt about the properties and propagation of transverse and longitudinal waves.

Measuring waves

Which of these does the speed of a wave moving through a medium depend on?

Match the wave quantity to the correct symbol.

Which of these is the correct relationship between wave speed, wavelength, and frequency?

A loudspeaker produces a series of sound waves of different frequencies.  Starting with the longest wavelength, put the waves into order of wavelength.

An earthquake produces a wave of wavelength 300 m with a frequency of 6.0 Hz. Calculate the wave speed.

Starting with the fastest wave, put the waves in order of decreasing wave speed.

The figure shows the displacement-time graph for a wave. Which of these correctly describe the features of this wave?

A student wants to measure the speed of a wave in a spring. Which quantities do they need to measure to calculate the speed?

shake the end up and down a greater distance

shake the end up and down a smaller distance

shake the end up and down more times each second

shake the end up and down less times each second

Waves can be produced in a rope by shaking one end up and down. Match the changes to their effects on the wave in the rope.

An oscilloscope and microphone are used to display the waveform for a sound wave. What will happen to the waveform if the frequency of the sound wave is increased?

On a pond, a ripple travels 0.30 m in 0.40 s. What is the speed of the wave?

Sound waves travel at 330 m/s in air. How long will it take a sound wave to travel 5.0 km?

Starter Quiz