Waves
General properties of waves
Waves are one way in which energy may be transferred between stores. Both mechanical and electromagnetic waves will transfer energy but not matter.
Light
All waves will reflect and refract in the right circumstances. The reflection and refraction of light explains how people see images, colour and even optical illusions.
Electromagnetic spectrum
Electromagnetic waves are transverse waves with a wide range of different properties and uses.
Sound
Sound is caused by the vibration of particles, not all vibrations can be heard as sound. Common ideas about sound are from the limited range of vibrations that humans can detect.
Video playlist
Refraction of light. Video
Jon Chase explains the refraction of light.
Lenses. Video
Jonny Nelson introduces an animated explanation of lenses.
Waves and communication. Video
Jon Chase demonstrates how electromagnetic waves are used in communication.
How do vibrations in the air lead to a sound we can hear? Video
How our ears turn vibrations into electrical signals that our brains can decode.
