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I/GCSE Physics: Calculation of Wave

Calculation of Wave

October 30, 2022

Equation of Wave

In I/GCSE Physics, The distance travelled by a wave can be worked out using the formula:

Distance (metres) = Wave speed (metres per second m/s) x Time (seconds)

All waves have several important features:

  • Amplitude – The maximum disturbance caused by a wave. It is measured by the distance from a crest or trough of the wave to the undisturbed position.
  • Wavelength – The distance between corresponding points on two adjacent cycles.
  • Frequency – the number of waves produced in one second. Frequency is measured in hertz (Hz).

Wave speed, frequency and wavelength are related by the following formula:

Wave speed (metres per second, m/s) = Frequency (hertz, Hz) x Wavelength (metres, m)

For a constant wave speed, the wavelength is INVERSELY PROPORTIONAL to the frequency in the syllabus of I/GCSE Physics.

That's all for today! Great!