Physics GCSE
Speed of light
What Speed of light means in Physics GCSE, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Speed of light
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Speed of light in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
For EM waves in a vacuum, v is about 3.0 × 10⁸ m/s.
Topics that use Speed of light
- The electromagnetic spectrum (OCR GCSE)
Related terms
- Communication and medicine
- Detection by instruments
- Electromagnetic spectrum
- Energy transfer by waves
- Fixed speed of electromagnetic waves
- Frequency matching between wave and circuit
- gamma ray
- High-energy end of the electromagnetic spectrum
Using Speed of light in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All Physics GCSE termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge