Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

This page explores the two main types of waves: transverse and longitudinal, which are essential concepts in OCR Gateway Combined Science Biology revision.

Transverse waves:

• Oscillations perpendicular to energy transfer direction
• Examples include electromagnetic waves and water ripples
• Can propagate in liquids, solids, and vacuum (EM waves only)

Longitudinal waves:

• Oscillations parallel to energy transfer direction
• Examples include sound waves and seismic P-waves
• Can propagate in solids, liquids, and gases, but not in vacuum

Example: A rope wave is a transverse wave, while a sound wave traveling through air is longitudinal.

Highlight: Understanding the differences between transverse and longitudinal waves is crucial for A Level Physics OCR Revision Guide topics on wave behavior.

Measuring Wave Speed

This page discusses methods for measuring wave speed, an important skill for OCR A Level Physics Waves questions.

Method 1: Between two points

1. Two people stand 100m apart
2. One person creates a sound, the other times from seeing to hearing
3. Speed calculated using distance and time

Method 2: Using echoes

1. Person stands 50m from a wall
2. Claps in rhythm with echoes
3. Time 20 claps and calculate speed using total distance

Example: In the echo method, if 20 claps take 6 seconds, the wave speed would be calculated as: (20 × 2 × 50) ÷ 6 = 333.33 m/s

Highlight: These practical methods help students understand wave behavior examples and prepare for OCR GCSE Chemistry exam questions related to wave speed measurement.