Sound Waves and Wave Speed
This section explores sound waves KS3 concepts and wave speed calculations, essential for KS3 Waves revision and BBC Bitesize waves KS3 study.
Sound waves are a type of energy created when sources vibrate particles in various mediums. Key points about sound waves include:
- Measured in decibels (dB)
- Travel best in solids due to particle density
- Cannot travel in a vacuum
- Propagate as longitudinal waves
- Are pressure waves with repeating patterns of high and low pressure regions
Vocabulary: Auditory range - The range of frequencies a species can hear, from lowest to highest.
Wave speed, also known as wave velocity, is crucial in understanding wave propagation. The formula for wave speed is:
Speed = Wavelength × Frequency
Highlight: Wave speed can be calculated using a triangle diagram, which is a helpful tool for KS3 waves questions.
Light waves, also called electromagnetic radiation, have unique properties:
- Consist of electric and magnetic parts
- Are transverse waves
- Visible light is a small portion of the electromagnetic spectrum
- Higher frequency waves (ultraviolet, x-ray, gamma) are less visible to the human eye
Example: The electromagnetic spectrum includes visible light, as well as invisible waves like radio waves and gamma rays.
Understanding these concepts is crucial for mastering KS3 year 9 science waves summary GCSE and BBC Bitesize waves KS4 materials.
