Longitudinal vs. Transverse Waves

Front

What are longitudinal waves?

Back

Waves in which the particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation.

Front

What are transverse waves?

Back

Waves in which the particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.

Front

What is a rarefaction in a longitudinal wave?

Back

A region where the particles are spread apart, resulting in lower pressure.

Front

What is a compression in a longitudinal wave?

Back

A region where the particles are close together, resulting in higher pressure.

Front

What is amplitude in wave terminology?

Back

The maximum height of a wave from its rest position to the crest or trough.

Front

What is wavelength?

Back

The distance between two consecutive points that are in phase on a wave, such as crest to crest.

Front

What is frequency?

Back

The number of complete waves that pass a point in a given time, usually measured in Hertz (Hz).

Front

What is the SI unit for measuring wavelength?

Back

Meters (m).

Front

How do you calculate the speed of a wave?

Back

Speed = Frequency x Wavelength.

Front

What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength?

Back

As frequency increases, wavelength decreases, and vice versa.