Transverse vs. Longitudinal Waves

Front

What are the two main types of waves?

Back

Transverse waves and longitudinal waves.

Front

How do transverse waves move the medium?

Back

Transverse waves move the medium perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer.

Front

How do longitudinal waves move the medium?

Back

Longitudinal waves move the medium parallel to the direction of energy transfer.

Front

What is an example of a transverse wave?

Back

An example of a transverse wave is a wave on a string or electromagnetic waves.

Front

What is an example of a longitudinal wave?

Back

An example of a longitudinal wave is a sound wave.

Front

What is the definition of a wave?

Back

A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy through matter or space.

Front

What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency in waves?

Back

Wavelength and frequency are inversely related; as one increases, the other decreases.

Front

What is amplitude in the context of waves?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum displacement of points on a wave from its rest position.

Front

What is the speed of a wave?

Back

The speed of a wave is the distance traveled by a wave in a given amount of time.

Front

What is a compression in a longitudinal wave?

Back

A compression is a region in a longitudinal wave where particles are closest together.