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Wave frequency and photon energy Motion graphs and wave graphs: read the axes Refraction changes speed and wavelength together Path difference becomes phase difference Stationary waves are a superposition pattern Use a stationary pattern to measure wave speed Measure wavelength over several repeats of a pattern Waves4.4 Quantum physics4.5 Implementing1.1.2 Kinematics3.1.1 Wave motion4.4.1 Electromagnetic waves4.4.2 Superposition4.4.3 Stationary waves4.4.4
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Physics connection

Use a stationary pattern to measure wave speed

OCR A AS Physics · Two ideas, one explanation

The pattern fitted into a string or air column determines the wavelength. Together with the frequency, it gives the wave speed.

v = fλ

Follow the reasoning

  1. Identify nodes and antinodes from the boundary conditions.
  2. Relate the apparatus length to the correct fraction of wavelength.
  3. Multiply wavelength by frequency.
Specification outcomes (5)
  • 4.4.4(e)(i) Describe stationary wave patterns for stretched strings and air columns in closed and open tubes.
  • 4.4.4(f) Understand that the separation between adjacent nodes or antinodes is equal to λ / 2.
  • 4.4.4(g) Define the fundamental mode (first harmonic) and describe higher harmonics.
  • 4.4.1(c) Use 1/T = f to relate period and frequency.
  • 4.4.1(d) Use the wave equation v = fλ.
Open the official OCR AS specification ↗

H156 v2.0 · May 2026

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