AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6 - Waves - Transverse and Longitudinal Waves - Wave Properties and Sound

Sep 5, 2026

Study transverse and longitudinal waves, focusing on how vibration direction relates to energy transfer and how crests, troughs, compression, and rarefaction describe wave behaviour. Learn key wave quantities including wavelength, amplitude, frequency, time period, and derive wave speed using frequency and wavelength. Apply methods to measure sound speed using echo timing, compare propagation through solids, liquids, and gases, and plan required practical investigations in ripple tanks and wave/refraction setups.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages7

Reading Time18 min

AccessFree to download

Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

Properties of Waves

Sound Waves in Different Medium

Required Practical Investigation 8

Required Practical Investigation 9

Reflection and Refraction

| AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6: Waves | | | | --- | --- | --- | | Transverse and Longitudinal Waves | Properties of Waves | Sound Waves in Different Medium | | Waves can be either transverse or longitudinal.
In a transverse wave, the vibrations are at a right angle (perpendicular) to the direction of the energy transfer. The wave has peaks (or crests) and troughs. Examples include water waves and light waves.

In a longitudinal wave, the vibrations are in the same direction (parallel) as the energy transfer. The wave has areas of compression and rarefaction. Examples of this typeof wave are sound waves.

When a wave travels, energy is transferred but the matter itself does not move. Particles of water or air vibrate and transfer energy but do not move with the wave.
This can be shown by placing a cork in a tank of water and generating ripples across the surface. The cork will bob up and down on the oscillations of the wave but will not travel across the tank.
|
one wavelength
crest

direction of the transverse
wave oscillation
amplitude

frequency in Hz
= waves passing a given point per second
frequency in Hz
= oscillasions per second
trough amplitude
one wavelength direction of wave movement
The frequency of a wave is the number of waves which pass a given point every second.
time period (s) = 1 ÷ frequency (Hz)
t = 1 ÷ f
The wave speed is how quickly the energy is transferred through a medium (how quickly the wave travels) .
wave speed (m/s) = frequency (Hz) × wavelength (m)
v = f × λ
The speed of sound waves travelling through air can be measured by a simple method. One person stands a measured distance from a large flat wall, e.g. 100m. The person then claps and another person measures the time taken to hear the echo. The speed of the sound can then be calculated using the equation
speed = distance × time.
Remember the distance will be double because the wave has travelled to the wall and back again. It is important to take several measurements and calculate the average to reduce the likelihood of human error. | How quickly sound waves can travel through a medium is determined by the density of the medium (material) .
Sound waves will travel faster through a solid than a liquid as the spaces between the particles are smaller. This means that the vibrations and energy can be passed along the particles more quickly. In a gas, the transmission of sound is even slower as the space between the particles is greater.
The speed of sound in air is 330m/s. | | | | Required Practical Investigation 8 | | | | Aim: make observations and identify the suitability of apparatus to measure the frequency, wavelength and speed of waves in a ripple tank and waves in
a solid, and take appropriate measurements.
The ripple tank apparatus shown is the most commonly used for this investigation. It is likely you will work in groups or observe the investigation as a demonstration by your teacher.
Method (assuming the apparatus is already set-up):
Turn on the power and observe the waves. Make any necessary adjustments to the equipment so that the waves are clear to observe (alter the voltage supplying the motor) . N.B. The lowest frequency setting on the motor will ensure that the waves measurements can be made more easily.
To measure the wavelength, use the metre ruler and make an estimate quickly. You may want to use a stroboscope and freeze the wave patterns to make measurements.
Record 10 wavelengths and calculate the average value.
| Page 1 of 7 visit [twinkl.com](twinkl.com) | AQA GCSE Physics (Separate Science) Unit 6: Waves | | | | --- | --- | --- | | Required Practical Investigation 8 (continued) | 8. Using a protractor, measure the angles of incidence, reflection and refraction. Record your results | Required Practical Investigation 10 | | To measure the wave frequency, mark a given point onto the whit

FAQs

What is the difference between a transverse and a longitudinal wave?

In a transverse wave, vibrations are perpendicular to energy transfer, with crests and troughs. In a longitudinal wave, vibrations are parallel to energy transfer, producing compression and rarefaction.

How are frequency and time period related?

Frequency is the number of waves passing a point each second. The time period is calculated using time period (s) = 1 ÷ frequency (Hz).

How do you calculate wave speed and sound speed through a medium?

Wave speed is found using v = f × λ. For sound in air, speed is determined by measured distance and echo time, remembering the distance is doubled for the out-and-back journey, then averaging several readings.

Sep 5, 2026

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