GCSE Physics (AQA)

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Refraction & Wave Speed

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Waves Electromagnetic waves

Refraction & Wave Speed

4:01 Refraction
Spec 4.6.2.2
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  • Refraction occurs due to waves changing speed at the boundary between two mediums.
  • Refraction is a wave changing direction as it transmits across a boundary.
  • Demonstration using a ripple tank with deep and shallow water shows wave peaks changing angle and wavelength decreasing.
  • Waves slow down in shallow water, causing a change in direction.
  • Waves approaching the boundary have the same speed.
  • Wave fronts represent the peaks of the wave and indicate the direction of the wave.
  • As waves reach the boundary, not all points slow down simultaneously.
  • Different points on the wave front reach the boundary and slow down at different times, changing the wave's direction.
  • The speed of the waves is slower, and the direction changes after crossing the boundary.
  • Waves initially travel perpendicular to wave fronts, and the angle change of wave fronts alters the wave's direction.
  • Understanding this explanation is important for exams, and drawing diagrams may help with explanations.

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