Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

Front

What type of wave is characterized by particle motion parallel to the direction of wave propagation?

Back

Longitudinal wave

Front

What type of wave is characterized by particle motion perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation?

Back

Transverse wave

Front

Give an example of a longitudinal wave.

Back

Sound waves

Front

Give an example of a transverse wave.

Back

Water waves or light waves

Front

What is the primary difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

Back

The direction of particle motion relative to wave propagation.

Front

In which type of wave do compressions and rarefactions occur?

Back

Longitudinal wave

Front

What is a compression in a longitudinal wave?

Back

A region where particles are close together.

Front

What is a rarefaction in a longitudinal wave?

Back

A region where particles are spread apart.

Front

What type of wave is typically represented by sine and cosine functions?

Back

Transverse wave

Front

How do sound waves travel through different mediums?

Back

Sound waves travel as longitudinal waves through solids, liquids, and gases.