Longitudinal Waves

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

A type of wave in which the particles of the medium move parallel to the direction of the wave's propagation.

Front

What is compression in a longitudinal wave?

Back

The part of a longitudinal wave where the particles of the medium are close together.

Front

What is rarefaction in a longitudinal wave?

Back

The part of a longitudinal wave where the particles of the medium are spread apart.

Front

What is the wavelength of a longitudinal wave?

Back

The distance between two consecutive compressions or two consecutive rarefactions.

Front

How do longitudinal waves differ from transverse waves?

Back

In longitudinal waves, particles move parallel to the wave direction, while in transverse waves, particles move perpendicular to the wave direction.

Front

What is the amplitude of a longitudinal wave?

Back

The maximum distance the particles of the medium move from their rest position.

Front

Can sound waves be classified as longitudinal waves?

Back

Yes, sound waves are a common example of longitudinal waves.

Front

What is the speed of a wave?

Back

The distance a wave travels per unit of time, calculated as speed = wavelength × frequency.

Front

What role does a medium play in longitudinal waves?

Back

A medium is necessary for longitudinal waves to travel, as the wave energy moves through the particles of the medium.

Front

What happens to the particles in a medium during a compression?

Back

The particles are pushed closer together, increasing the pressure in that region.