CAIE IGCSE Physics Edge Diffraction
Practise explaining waves bending around an edge and predict why longer-wavelength sound or radio signals reach shadow regions more effectively.
- Syllabus
- 2026–2028
- Course
- Physics 0625
Exam points
- identify wave spreading around a wall, hill or obstacle edge as diffraction
- predict greater edge diffraction for longer wavelengths and lower frequencies
- apply this comparison to hearing sound or receiving radio where light is blocked
3.1.10—Wavelength affects diffraction at an question 1
A large hill blocks the direct path between a transmitter of radio waves and a receiver, as shown.
The receiver picks up the signal from the transmitter even though the radio waves do not travel through the hill.
Which row is correct?
A possible way
for this to happen is
A stronger signal is
received using
diffraction round the hill.
longer wavelengths.
diffraction round the hill.
shorter wavelengths.
refraction round the hill.
longer wavelengths.
refraction round the hill.
shorter wavelengths.
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