GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Wavelength

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Waves Waves in air, fluids and solids

Wavelength

5:38 Properties of Waves
Spec 4.6.1.2
Previous Wave Diagrams & Amplitude Next Frequency
  • Wavelength is the distance between equivalent points on a wave.
  • Visualize using a wave diagram, such as a transverse wave fixed in time.
  • Equilibrium line is the baseline for measuring wave displacement.
  • Adjacent equivalent points represent one full cycle of the wave.
  • Wavelength is consistent for any two equivalent points, regardless of amplitude changes.
  • Wavelength is symbolized by the Greek letter Lambda and measured in meters.
  • Equivalent points are at the same point in their motion and have the same displacement.
  • Matter in a wave moves up and down as the wave pattern passes.
  • Wavelength of a transverse wave can be measured between adjacent peaks or troughs.
  • For longitudinal waves, measure wavelength between adjacent compressions or rarefactions.
  • Compression is where wave matter is bunched together; rarefaction is where it is spread out.
  • In exams, be able to define wavelength and measure it from images.

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