Explore the idea
Electromagnetic waves
Explore electromagnetic waves within waves. A wave transfers energy through oscillations. Relate frequency, wavelength and speed, then use phase and superposition to explain interference and stationary waves.
Specification outcomes (6)
- 4.4.2(a) Describe the electromagnetic spectrum and properties of electromagnetic waves.
- 4.4.2(b) Recall orders of magnitude of wavelengths from radio waves to gamma rays.
- 4.4.2(c) Describe plane-polarised waves and polarisation of electromagnetic waves.
- 4.4.2(d)(i) Define refraction of light, refractive index n = c / v, and Snell’s law n₁sinθ₁ = n₂sinθ₂.
- 4.4.2(d)(ii) Use ray boxes and transparent blocks to investigate refraction and total internal reflection.
- 4.4.2(e) Define critical angle using sin c = 1 / n and describe total internal reflection.
H156 v2.0 · May 2026
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