Exploring Structure Using Waves Simplified Revision Notes for GCSE AQA Physics

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Learn about Waves in Air, Fluids & Solids for your GCSE Physics Exam. This Revision Note includes a summary of Waves in Air, Fluids & Solids for easy recall in your Physics exam

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6.1.10 Exploring Structure Using Waves

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Sound waves are valuable for investigating structures that aren't visible directly. Here's how different types of sound waves are used and what helps in detecting hidden structures:

Uses of Sound Waves

Echo Sounding: Ships use this technique to map the ocean floor by measuring how long it takes for sound waves to return after bouncing off the seabed.
Ultrasound: In medicine, ultrasound is employed to view internal body structures, such as organs or a developing baby.
Ultrasound Crack Detection: Used to find cracks in rail tracks, helping to ensure safety.
Reflection Seismology: This method locates oil and gas underground by analysing how seismic waves reflect off different layers of the Earth.
Seismic Activity: Earthquake waves are used to study the Earth's internal structure.

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Key Properties for Detection

Reflection: Sound waves bounce off surfaces, revealing structures based on how much is reflected.
Absorption: Some materials absorb sound waves, affecting how much sound returns.
Transmission: Sound waves travel through materials at different speeds, depending on the substance.
Speed of Sound: Sound travels faster in solids than in liquids, and faster in liquids than in gases.

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Different materials reflect, absorb, and transmit sound waves in various ways. By analysing the reflected sound and the speed of the waves, we can identify and understand hidden structures.

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