Wave Motion
波動
Unit Overview
This topic examines the basic nature and properties of waves. Light and sound, in particular, are also studied in detail. Students are familiar with examples of energy being transmitted from one place to another, together with the transfer of matter. In this topic, the concept of waves as a means of transmitting energy without transferring matter is emphasised. The foundations for describing wave motion with physics terminology are laid. Students learn the graphical representations of travelling waves. The basic properties and characteristics displayed by waves are examined; reflection, refraction, diffraction and interference are studied, using simple wavefront diagrams. Students acquire specific knowledge about light in two important aspects. The characteristics of light as a part of the electromagnetic spectrum are studied. Also, the linear propagation of light in the absence of significant diffraction and interference effects is used to explain image formation in the domain of geometrical optics. The formation of real and virtual images using mirrors and lenses is studied with construction rules for light rays. Sound as an example of longitudinal waves is examined and its general properties are compared with those of light waves. Students also learn about ultrasound. descriptions of musical notes are related to the terminology of waves. The general The effects of noise pollution and the importance of acoustic protection are also studied.
Key Concepts
Waves as Oscillations & Energy Transfer
波：振盪與能量傳遞What a wave is: oscillations that carry energy from place to place without carrying matter along.
Wave Terms, Graphs & Wave Speed
波的術語、圖像與波速Transverse vs longitudinal waves; key terms (amplitude, period, frequency, wavelength, phase, wavefront); reading displacement–time and displacement–distance graphs; and using f = 1/T and v = fλ.
Reflection & Refraction of Waves
波的反射與折射What happens at boundaries: reflection at barriers, refraction across boundaries, speed change, and refractive index defined using wave speeds (plus wavefront diagrams).
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- Diffraction, Superposition & Interference
- Stationary Waves (Standing Waves)
- Light in the Electromagnetic Spectrum
- Geometrical Optics: Reflection, Refraction & Total Internal Reflection
- + 3 more topics
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