P4

Transverse waves

Particles move up and down perpendicular to the direction of travel. Examples include water waves and electromagnetic waves.

Longitudinal waves

Particles move back and forth in the direction of travel. Examples include sound waves.

Electromagnetic waves

Waves that do not require a medium to pass through.

Frequency

Number of waves passing a point per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Period

Time taken for one wave to pass a point.

Wavelength

Distance between corresponding points on adjacent waves, measured in meters (m).

Amplitude

Maximum distance from the peak of a wave to the undisturbed line.

Velocity

Speed of the wave in the direction of travel.

Wave speed formula

Formula for calculating the speed of a wave.

Refraction

Change in the direction of a light ray when it enters a different medium.