In IB Physics First Assessment 2016, wave characteristics is a subtopic of Topic 4 waves. This subtopic has the following understandings associated with it.

  1. Wavefronts and rays
  2. Amplitude and intensity
  3. Superposition
  4. Polarization

In this part of the analysis, I am particularly interested in “What is the frequency distribution of the questions concerning wave characteristics understandings?”

Frequency distribution of questions by wave characteristics understandings for HL

Between 1999-2023

For the entire dataset for HL, polarization was the most commonly assessed understanding of wave characteristics, with almost two-thirds of the questions coming from this understanding. Amplitude and intensity and superposition of waves were almost equally emphasized.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_subtopic_12_Wave_characteristics_HL_1999_2023

Figure 1

Between 2016-2023

Between these years, the emphasis on polarization and amplitude and intensity increased for HL.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_subtopic_12_Wave_characteristics_HL_2016_2023

Figure 2

Frequency distribution of questions by wave characteristics understandings for SL

Between 1999-2023

For the entire dataset for SL, superposition and polarization were the most commonly assessed understandings of wave characteristics. Wave fronts and rays was the least emphasized understanding.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_subtopic_12_Wave_characteristics_SL_1999_2023

Figure 3

Between 2016-2023

Between these years, the emphasis on polarization increased, and superposition decreased compared to the entire dataset for SL.

frequency_distribution_questions_IB_Physics_subtopic_12_Wave_characteristics_SL_2016_2023

Figure 4

Where to go from here?

You may want to check out the other related subtopics:

  1. Oscillations
  2. Travelling waves
  3. Wave characteristics
  4. Wave behaviour
  5. Standing waves

If you are interested in more detailed analyses of the topics:

  1. Measurement and uncertainties
  2. Mechanics
  3. Thermal physics
  4. Waves
  5. Electricity and magnetism
  6. Circular motion and gravitation
  7. Atomic, nuclear and particle physics
  8. Energy production
  9. Wave phenomena
  10. Fields
  11. Electromagnetic induction
  12. Quantum and nuclear physics

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