Longitudinal and Transverse Waves

Front

What are rarefactions?

Back

Places where particles of the medium spread farther apart in a longitudinal wave.

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

A wave in which particles of matter vibrate at right angles to the direction the wave travels.

Front

How can you best produce a longitudinal wave?

Back

By squeezing and releasing a metal spring.

Front

What are compressions in a longitudinal wave?

Back

Places where the waves are closely packed together.

Front

What are the high points of a transverse wave called?

Back

Crest.

Front

What are the low points of a transverse wave called?

Back

Trough.

Front

What is the wavelength of a wave?

Back

The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs.

Front

What is amplitude in a wave?

Back

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

Front

What is the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

Back

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

Front

What is a medium in the context of waves?

Back

The substance through which a wave travels, such as air, water, or solid materials.