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Physics · Triple Science

Waves

Spec 4.6 Paper 2 📙 Higher

Subtopics

Transverse and Longitudinal WavesSpec 6.6.1.1Describe transverse and longitudinal waves and give examples of each. + Sound Waves and HearingSpec 6.6.1.4 (HT only, physics only)Describe sound wave properties and explain the range of human hearing and ultrasound. + Waves for Detection and ExplorationSpec 6.6.1.5 (HT only, physics only)Describe how waves are used for detection and exploration including seismic waves and echo sounding. + Properties of WavesSpec 6.6.1.2Define amplitude, wavelength, frequency, period and wave speed, and use v = fλ. + Types of Electromagnetic WavesSpec 6.6.2.1Describe the electromagnetic spectrum and the properties all EM waves share. + Properties of Electromagnetic Waves 1Spec 6.6.2.2Describe refraction of EM waves and construct ray diagrams at boundaries. + Properties of Electromagnetic Waves 2 and HazardsSpec 6.6.2.3Describe hazards of EM radiation and how different waves interact with matter. + Uses and Applications of Electromagnetic WavesSpec 6.6.2.4Describe the uses of each type of electromagnetic wave and explain why each type is suitable. + Wave Front Diagrams and RefractionSpec 6.6.2 (HT only)Use wave front diagrams to explain refraction and describe radio wave behaviour. + LensesSpec 6.6.3 (physics only)Describe how converging and diverging lenses refract light and construct ray diagrams. + Infrared Emission, Absorption and Black BodiesSpec 6.6.5 (physics only)Describe infrared emission and absorption by surfaces and explain perfect black body radiation. + Radiation Balance and Earth's TemperatureSpec 6.6.5.4 (HT only)Explain how radiation balance determines the Earth's temperature and the greenhouse effect. +

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Key Equations

v = fλ

T = 1/f

⭐ Higher Tier Content

Reflection angle = incidence angle

Refractive index n = sin i / sin r

🔬 Triple Science Extensions

Sound waves, hearing and ultrasound

Seismic waves and SONAR

Lenses and vision correction

Infrared emission and black bodies

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