Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

A wave in which the disturbance moves perpendicular to the direction of the wave motion, such as waves on a string.

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

A wave in which the disturbance moves parallel to the direction of the wave motion, such as sound waves.

Front

What do all waves carry?

Back

Energy.

Front

How does a transverse wave move?

Back

The particles of the medium move up and down while the wave travels horizontally.

Front

How does a longitudinal wave move?

Back

The particles of the medium move back and forth in the same direction as the wave travels.

Front

What is the main difference between transverse and longitudinal waves?

Back

Transverse waves have particle motion perpendicular to wave direction, while longitudinal waves have particle motion parallel to wave direction.

Front

Can you give an example of a transverse wave?

Back

Light waves and waves on a string are examples of transverse waves.

Front

Can you give an example of a longitudinal wave?

Back

Sound waves traveling through air are examples of longitudinal waves.

Front

What happens to the particles in a medium when a transverse wave passes through?

Back

Particles move up and down, creating crests and troughs.

Front

What happens to the particles in a medium when a longitudinal wave passes through?

Back

Particles compress and rarefy, creating areas of high and low pressure.