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Learning objective

Illustrate that sound waves in air are longitudinal, consisting of compressions and rarefactions.

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  • Practise with linked questions.
Cambridge IGCSE Combined ScienceWavesSupplement content

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Quick explanation

Illustrate that sound waves in air are longitudinal, consisting of compressions and rarefactions

  • This point belongs to Sound, especially Sound outcomes.
  • You need to be able to illustrate that sound waves in air are longitudinal, consisting of compressions and rarefactions.
  • The key ideas to know are Describe.
  • Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Key concepts

Describe

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Paper 4 structured question: Sound

Paper 4Theory (Extended)2 marks

Description

Sound Waves

Sound waves are longitudinal waves that consist of compressions and rarefactions as they travel through air.

  1. a

    Explain the characteristics of sound waves in air.

    Aim for approximately 2 distinct marking points.

    [2]
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Cambridge IGCSECombined Science resources