CAIE IGCSE Physics Reflection Refraction Diffraction
Practise identifying and drawing reflected, refracted and diffracted wavefronts while preserving or changing wavelength according to speed and geometry.
- Syllabus
- 2026–2028
- Course
- Physics 0625
Exam points
- draw reflection with equal incident and reflected angles and unchanged wavefront spacing
- show refraction when speed and wavelength change at a boundary while frequency stays fixed
- draw diffraction as spreading wavefronts beyond a narrow gap or around an edge
3.1.7—Waves can undergo: (a) reflection at a question 1
Fig. 5.2 shows a simplified diagram of seismic P-waves travelling through the Earth. The paths of the waves are curved.
Seismic waves are produced by rock movements in earthquakes.
Fig. 5.2 (not to scale)
At point X , the P -wave travels from the solid mantle to the liquid core. There is a sudden change in direction of the path of the wave.
Explain the change in direction of the P -wave at point X .
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