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IB Physics HL · C.3 Wave phenomena

Superposition, diffraction, and interference for IB Physics HL

Superposition, diffraction, and interference is mapped to C.3 Wave phenomena in the IB Physics HL pathway. Use this public guide to see exactly where the concept fits, what to master, and which GioPhysics resource continues the study sequence.

C · Wave behaviourSL + HL extensionGuide 1 of 5

Where this fits

C.3 Wave phenomena

Curriculum
IB Physics HL
Theme or group
Wave behaviour
Current framework
First assessment 2025

Interference, double slits, and gratings are in Chapter 24; refraction is in Chapter 25 and single-slit HL work in Chapter 26.

Mastery checklist

Know what success looks like.

  1. 01

    Label the wave or ray diagram with the quantities and boundary conditions that matter.

  2. 02

    Relate frequency, period, wavelength, speed, phase, or angle using the correct model.

  3. 03

    Predict how the observable pattern changes when one controlled variable changes.

Exam lens

Build, apply, check.

C.3 Wave phenomena is identified as SL + HL extension in this curriculum map. Build the concept first, then practise selecting a model, showing working, and checking the final result.

Teaching sequence

C.3 Wave phenomena

This syllabus point maps to 5 ordered concept guides.

  1. 01Superposition, diffraction, and interferenceCurrent guide
  2. 02Young's double-slit interference
  3. 03Diffraction gratings
  4. 04Refraction and Snell's law
  5. 05Single-slit diffraction and resolution

Continue on GioPhysics

Choose the right next step.

The curriculum context stays public. Lesson and presentation access follows the existing GioPhysics membership rules.

LearnOpen the mapped lessonSuperposition, diffraction, and interferenceTeachOpen the presentationClassroom sequence for this conceptPractiseOpen problem applicationsEasy through expert problem pathwaysPlanOpen the full curriculum mapIB Diploma Programme Physics