Transverse Waves and Longitudinal Waves

What does the wave carry as it moves?

• SOUND

• ENERGY

• LIGHT

• SPRING

Answer explanation

Waves do not transmit matter, but they transmit energy.

Which of the following statements about longitudinal waves is FALSE?

• Sound waves are an example of a longitudinal wave.

• A slinky spring can be used to demonstrate how longitudinal waves travel.

• Longitudinal waves have areas of compression and rarefaction.

• All electromagnetic waves are longitudinal waves.

Answer explanation

Electromagnetic waves are transverse waves. That means the electric and magnetic fields change (oscillate) in a plane that is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave

Select the correct definition from the list below for a transverse wave.

• The oscillations of a transverse wave are perpendicular to the   direction in which the waves transfer energy.

• The oscillations of a transverse wave are parallel to the direction in which the waves transfer energy.

• The oscillations of a transverse wave are at 45o to the direction     in which the waves transfer energy.

• The oscillations of a transverse wave are in the same direction in   which the waves transfer energy.

How do you call the waves present in coil spring that causes some portion to be compressed and extended?

• Transverse wave    

• Longitudinal wave

• surface wave

• earthquake wave

Answer explanation

Longitudinal waves show areas of compression and rarefaction : compressions are regions of high pressure due to particles being close together. rarefactions are regions of low pressure due to particles being spread further apart.

In a transverse wave, the individual particles of the medium....

• Move in circles

•     Moves toward the source

• Move parallel to the direction of travel

• Move perpendicular to the direction of travel