Waves

Learn how vibrations generate waves, how waves transfer energy, and how electromagnetic waves are used.

SEC G1 Science 2027
4 lessons

Before you begin

Vibrations generate waves, and waves transfer energy. The lessons start with how waves are made and described by amplitude, frequency and wavelength, then turn to the uses of electromagnetic waves.

Learning goals

Generating waves
Energy transfer by waves
Amplitude, frequency and wavelength
Radio waves
Microwaves
Infrared
Light
Ultraviolet
X-rays
Gamma rays

Syllabus statements covered

describe how waves can be generated by vibrations, as illustrated by wave motion in ropes and springs (the terms longitudinal and transverse are not required)
show an understanding that waves transfer energy
show an understanding of the terms amplitude, frequency and wavelength used to describe wave motion
state some uses of the following types of waves: — radio waves (e.g. radio and television communications)
state some uses of the following types of waves: — microwaves (e.g. microwave oven, satellite communication)
state some uses of the following types of waves: — infrared (e.g. remote-controlled devices)
state some uses of the following types of waves: — light (e.g. optical fibres for telecommunication)
state some uses of the following types of waves: — ultraviolet (e.g. sterilisation, sunbeds)
state some uses of the following types of waves: — X-rays (e.g. engineering and radiological applications)
state some uses of the following types of waves: — gamma rays (e.g. medical treatment)

Lessons

Work through them in order.

Practise and check

Topic reference

Inspect the references before calculating: amplitude is equilibrium to one crest, wavelength is between consecutive crests, and frequency is 12 cycles divided by 4 seconds. This is a schematic drawing: use the labelled distances, rather than measuring pixels. The timing record is a separate observation at a fixed point.

What G1 does not need

G1 Science does not require the terms transverse and longitudinal, period or wave-speed calculations.

Electromagnetic-wave uses

Radio waves support radio and television communication; microwaves support ovens and satellite communication; infrared supports remote controls; light carries telecommunications in optical fibres; ultraviolet can sterilise; X-rays support engineering and radiological imaging; gamma rays are used in medical treatment.