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WalesCombined Science

Unit 3 Physics 1: Waves

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

What are the features of a wave, and how are wave speed, frequency and wavelength related?

Transverse and longitudinal waves, the features of a wave (amplitude, wavelength, frequency, period), and the wave equation.
A focused answer to the WJEC GCSE Science Double Award Unit 3 topic on waves, covering transverse and longitudinal waves, the features amplitude, wavelength, frequency and period, and the wave equation linking speed, frequency and wavelength.
9 min answer →

How do waves reflect and refract, and why does refraction happen?

The reflection of waves and the law of reflection, and the refraction of waves as they change speed when crossing a boundary.
A focused answer to the WJEC GCSE Science Double Award Unit 3 topic on reflection and refraction, covering the law of reflection, how images form in a mirror, and why waves refract when they change speed crossing a boundary.
9 min answer →

What is the electromagnetic spectrum, and what are the uses and dangers of each type of wave?

The electromagnetic spectrum in order, its common properties, and the uses and dangers of each type of electromagnetic wave.
A focused answer to the WJEC GCSE Science Double Award Unit 3 topic on the electromagnetic spectrum, covering the seven types in order, their common properties, and the uses and dangers of each from radio waves to gamma rays.
9 min answer →

What is total internal reflection, and how is it used in optical fibres?

Total internal reflection, the critical angle, and the use of total internal reflection in optical fibres and prisms.
A focused answer to the WJEC GCSE Science Double Award Unit 3 topic on total internal reflection, covering the critical angle, the conditions for total internal reflection, and its use in optical fibres and prisms.
8 min answer →