Syllabus Edition

First teaching 2014

Last exams 2024

|

Wavefronts (DP IB Physics: SL)

Revision Note

Test yourself
Ashika

Author

Ashika

Last updated

Wavefronts

  • Waves can be represented graphically in two different ways:
    • Wavefronts - lines joining all the points that oscillate in phase and are perpendicular to the direction of motion (and energy transfer)
    • Rays - lines showing the direction of motion (and energy transfer) of the wave that are perpendicular to the wavefront

4-3-1-wavefronts-and-rays_sl-physics-rn

Wavefronts and rays for transverse waves travelling in a horizontal plane

  • The distance between successive wavefronts is equal to the wavelength of the waves

 

  • Ripple tanks are used a common experiment to demonstrate diffraction of water waves

 

Ripple tank, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Wave effects may all be demonstrated using a ripple tank

 

  • The diagram below shows how the wavelengths differ with frequency in a ripple tank
    • The higher the frequency, the shorter the wavelength
    • The lower the frequency, the longer the wavelength

 Ripple tank vibrations, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Ripple tank patterns for low and high frequency vibration

 

You've read 0 of your 10 free revision notes

Unlock more, it's free!

Join the 100,000+ Students that ❤️ Save My Exams

the (exam) results speak for themselves:

Did this page help you?

Ashika

Author: Ashika

Expertise: Physics Project Lead

Ashika graduated with a first-class Physics degree from Manchester University and, having worked as a software engineer, focused on Physics education, creating engaging content to help students across all levels. Now an experienced GCSE and A Level Physics and Maths tutor, Ashika helps to grow and improve our Physics resources.