Particles and Waves
This page delves into the behavior of particles and the properties of waves, providing essential GCSE Physics notes all topics.
The section on particles discusses energy transfer and state changes. It explains how cooling and heating affect particle behavior and state changes. The process of convection is described, highlighting how particles in fluids behave when heated.
Example: When a substance is heated, its particles gain energy and move around more, taking up more space and becoming less dense. This principle explains why hot air rises.
The concept of diffusion is introduced as the net movement of particles from high to low concentration areas.
The waves section provides information on sound and light waves in different mediums. It introduces key wave terminology such as amplitude, crest, trough, and wavelength.
Vocabulary: Superposition - When waves come together and interact, potentially leading to constructive or destructive interference.
The page distinguishes between longitudinal and transverse waves and explains wave interference. It also mentions how an oscilloscope can be used to measure wave properties.
Highlight: The speed of sound varies in different mediums: 340 m/s in gases, 5,000 m/s in solids, and 1,500 m/s in liquids. This information is crucial for GCSE Physics Summary Notes PDF.
The section on sound waves discusses the decibel scale and how the rigidity of a medium affects sound wave speed.
