GCSE AQA Physics: Waves

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A disturbance that transfers energy through matter or space

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

Particles move perpendicular to wave direction

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

Particles move parallel to wave direction

Front

What is amplitude?

Back

Maximum displacement from rest position

Front

What is wavelength (λ)?

Back

Distance between two consecutive crests or troughs

Front

What is frequency (f)?

Back

Number of waves passing a point per second (Hz)

Front

What is the period (T)?

Back

Time for one complete wave cycle (T = 1/f)

Front

What is wave speed (v)?

Back

Speed at which wave travels through a medium (v = f λ)

Front

What is reflection?

Back

Bouncing back of waves at a surface

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Bending of waves due to change in speed