Level 5: Wave speed

Waves, sound and light · level 5 of 8 · rough age 12-13 (a guide for parents; anyone can start anywhere)

Every wave, from a ripple to a radio signal, follows the same rules. This level names the parts of a wave and uses the wave equation \(v = f\lambda\). You time light on its way to Mars, bounce waves off things to measure distance, bend light as it slows down, and hear the pitch of a moving source change.

Lesson	You will be able to
What is a wave?	Name the parts of a wave, and tell transverse from longitudinal
Frequency and wavelength	Use \(v = f\lambda\) for sound on Mars and on Earth
The speed of light	Work out how long light and radio take to reach Mars
Reflection	Use the law of reflection, and time echoes to find distances
Refraction	Explain why light bends when it changes speed
The Doppler effect	Find the pitch you hear from a moving source

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