Theme C: Wave behaviour

IB Physics C.2 Wave model: practice questions and video explanations

Transverse and longitudinal travelling waves, the wave equation and the properties of sound and electromagnetic waves.

SL and HL

What you need to know for C.2 Wave model

  • Distinguish transverse and longitudinal waves
  • Use wavelength, frequency, period and wave speed (v = fλ)
  • Interpret displacement-distance and displacement-time graphs
  • Compare mechanical waves, sound and electromagnetic waves

C.2 Wave model questions in the question bank

Exam-style questions
18
Multiple choice (Paper 1A style)
16
Structured (Paper 1B and 2 style)
2
Free to try
1

Every question has a mark scheme. Multiple-choice answers are marked instantly, and for structured questions you open the mark scheme part by part and award yourself the marks you earned. Most questions also have a step-by-step video explanation presented by an IB teacher or a former IB student.

Practising C.2 Wave model needs Premium. Topic A (Space, time and motion) and uncertainties are free with a free account.

Practise C.2 (SL)Practise C.2 (HL)

Try a free C.2 Wave model question

Real questions from the question bank. Choose an answer and check it, then see the mark scheme and the video explanation.

Free question · 1 of 1Topic C.2Paper 1 styleEasy
An electromagnetic wave has a wavelength that is about the size of the diameter of an atom.
What region of the electromagnetic spectrum does the wave belong to?
Choose your answer

More from theme C: Wave behaviour

Full practice papers

When you have practised by topic, sit a full SL or HL mock exam with Paper 1A, Paper 1B and Paper 2, or see every IB Physics topic.