Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Physics · Year 10–11
Specification points 3.1–3.23. Wave properties, the electromagnetic spectrum, reflection, refraction and total internal reflection. Physics-only points 3.24P–3.29P are not taught here.
From your teacher
Every angle is measured from the normal, not from the surface. If you remember that one rule, half the light paper becomes easy. For calculations: convert first, write $v=f\lambda$ or $n=\sin i/\sin r$, then substitute. I will keep stopping you from calling sound a transverse wave.
Lesson A · 3.1–3.9, 3.23
Types, definitions, $v=f\lambda$, $T=1/f$, Doppler, sound as longitudinal.
Lesson B · 3.10–3.13
Order, $3.0\times 10^8\,\text{m/s}$, uses and hazards with protection.
Lesson C · 3.14–3.22
Reflection, refraction practicals, Snell’s law, critical angle, TIR, fibres.
Wave speed, refractive index, critical angle — marked the way I mark.
| Point | You must be able to | Lesson |
|---|---|---|
| 3.1 | Use °, Hz, m, m/s, s | A |
| 3.2–3.4, 3.23 | Transverse vs longitudinal; definitions; energy without matter; sound | A |
| 3.5–3.9 | $v=f\lambda$, $T=1/f$, Doppler, all waves reflect and refract | A |
| 3.10–3.13 | EM order, same speed in free space, uses and hazards | B |
| 3.14–3.19 | Reflection, refraction diagrams, $n=\sin i/\sin r$, glass-block practicals | C |
| 3.20–3.22 | TIR, critical angle, $\sin c=1/n$, optical fibres and prisms | C |