WavesKey Facts

Using the Wave Equation

Part of Wave Properties · GCSE GCSE Physics revision

This key facts covers Using the Wave Equation within Wave Properties for GCSE Physics. Revise Wave Properties in Waves for GCSE Physics with 21 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 5 of 13 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 5 of 13

Practice

21 questions

Recall

15 flashcards

🔧 Using the Wave Equation

Rearrangements:

  • v = f × λ (find speed)
  • f = v / λ (find frequency)
  • λ = v / f (find wavelength)

Key relationships:

  • Higher frequency → shorter wavelength (for same speed)
  • Speed depends on the MEDIUM, not the wave itself
  • Frequency is set by the SOURCE and doesn't change

Quick Check: A wave has a frequency of 5 Hz and a wavelength of 2 m. What is its speed?

Keep building this topic

Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Wave Properties. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Practice Questions for Wave Properties

What do waves transfer from one place to another?

  • A. Matter only
  • B. Energy only
  • C. Both energy and matter
  • D. Energy without transferring matter
1 markfoundation

Explain the difference between a transverse wave and a longitudinal wave.

2 marksstandard

Quick Recall Flashcards

Wave equation
v = fλ (wave speed = frequency × wavelength)
What is amplitude?
Maximum displacement from rest position (determines energy/loudness/brightness)

21 questions on Wave Properties — practise free

Instant marking, adaptive difficulty, and 15 spaced repetition flashcards. Free until your GCSEs.

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