the crest of a wave is the top or peak of the wave.

the trough of a wave is the lowest point of the wave.

wavelength of a transverse wave is the distance between one wave crest (or trough) and the next.

the amplitude of a wave is the maximum distance that each part of the wave moves from its normal position as a wave passes.

the displacement of a wave is the distance that each part of the wave moves from its rest position as a wave passes.

Transverse waves

Physics

In the Electromagnetic waves unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn about the reflection and refraction of light, other types of electromagnetic radiation in the EM spectrum and the helpful and harmful effects of each type of radiation.

In the Waves unit, pupils learnt about the properties and propagation of transverse and longitudinal waves.

This unit covers wave motion, including amplitude, wavelength, frequency, and velocity. It explains transverse and longitudinal waves, reflection, and absorption. The focus is on measuring wave speed, and sound interactions, applying formulas, and conducting accurate experiments.

Measuring waves

the distance between two wave crests along the rope

half the distance between two wave crests along the rope

the distance from the top of a crest down to the bottom of a trough 

half the distance from the top of a crest down to the bottom of a trough

How is the amplitude of a wave on a rope measured?

Which arrow shows the displacement of a wave on a rope?

Which arrow shows the wavelength of this wave?

What is the displacement of this wave at 9 m along it?

A water wave with a bigger amplitude is ...

A sound wave is made by an object that is {{}}.

it moves forwards, but slower than the wave

How does a rope move when a wave is sent along it, by shaking one end?

How does a ball floating on water move as a water wave passes by?

What is **not** transferred forwards with a water wave?

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Transverse waves

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.