Wave Properties, Graphs, and the Wave Equation

Understand the distinction between scalar and vector quantities, recall typical speeds, and perform standard speed and unit conversion calculations.

Master experimental techniques for measuring motion, analyze timing errors, solve 1D relative velocity problems, and tackle GCSE-level kinematics questions.

Plot, interpret, and calculate gradients from distance-time and displacement-time graphs.

Calculate acceleration, interpret velocity-time graphs, and calculate distance travelled using enclosed area.

Apply the uniform acceleration equation v² - u² = 2as and solve complex multi-step kinematics problems.

Explain how an object moving in a circle moves with constant speed but continuously changing velocity.

Apply Newton's First Law to explain stationary objects, uniform velocity, and the effect of unbalanced resultant forces.

Apply Newton's Second Law F = ma, calculate inertial mass, and investigate acceleration with varying force and mass.

Apply Newton's Third Law to interaction pairs and contrast Newton's Third Law pairs with balanced equilibrium forces.

Define momentum, calculate momentum using p = mv, and apply the principle of conservation of momentum to collisions and explosions.

Measure human reaction times, recall typical values, and explain factors affecting driver thinking distance.

Explain factors affecting braking distance, analyse energy dissipation during braking, and evaluate safety features.

Describe wave motion and key wave properties, interpret wave graphs, and solve multi-step wave equation calculations.

Carry out and analyze required practical investigations to measure wave speed in liquids and solids, minimize experimental uncertainty, and apply methods to exam questions.

Differentiate transverse and longitudinal waves, explain wave transmission in media, and investigate sound waves.

Demonstrate that waves transfer energy without matter and calculate wave speeds experimentally in water and air.

Explain the nature of electromagnetic waves, order the spectrum, and calculate wave parameters using standard form and SI prefixes.

Evaluate how electromagnetic waves interact with matter, their technological applications, and the health risks of ionising radiation.