Energy on the Move: Discovering Waves

• newEditor
• Science
• Secondary Education
• Age 11

Energy on the Move: Discovering Waves

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will be able to explain how different types of waves carry and transfer energy, and describe the differences between transverse and longitudinal waves.

What Is a Wave?

A wave is a repeating movement or vibration that transfers energy from one place to another, without moving matter permanently.

Waves Transfer Energy

Waves can carry energy across distances. For example, ocean waves move energy to the shore, and the sound of the waves.

Types of Waves

Transverse Waves

Longitudinal Waves

Vibrations move up and down while the wave travels sideways. There are crests and troughs.

Vibrations move forward and backward along the same direction as the wave. Areas of compression and rarefaction appear.

Transverse Waves: Key Examples

Light and water waves are transverse. The vibrations are at right angles to the direction the wave travels.

Longitudinal Waves: Sound

Sound travels as a longitudinal wave. The vibrations push air particles back and forth, creating sound you can hear.

Summary: Waves in Our World

Waves are all around us, transferring energy in many forms. Recognising transverse and longitudinal waves helps us understand light, sound, and more.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.