Welcome to this deck on the properties of waves. In GCSE Physics, understanding waves is fundamental. We'll explore what waves are, how they transfer energy, and the two main types: transverse and longitudinal. We will also define the key properties used to describe any wave, and look at the important wave speed equation. Finally, we'll cover reflection and the specifics of sound waves and human hearing.

All waves can be categorised as one of two types, based on how they move. The two types are transverse and longitudinal. The difference between them is the direction of the vibrations, or oscillations, compared to the direction in which the wave is transferring energy.

Let's start with transverse waves. In a transverse wave, the oscillations are perpendicular, or at a right angle, to the direction of energy transfer. Imagine wiggling a rope up and down. The wave travels along the rope, but each part of the rope just moves up and down. All electromagnetic waves, such as light, are transverse, as are ripples on the surface of water.