General Wave Properties and Types Quiz

Which statement best describes how waves transfer energy?

• Waves transfer energy and matter
• Waves transfer energy without transferring matter
• Waves transfer matter without transferring energy
• Waves do not transfer energy or matter

What is the term for the distance from the equilibrium position to the maximum displacement of a wave?

• Wavelength
• Frequency
• Amplitude
• Speed

Which of the following correctly defines wavelength?

• The number of waves that pass a point per second
• The distance between a point on one wave and the same point on the next wave
• The speed at which a wave travels
• The height of a wave from peak to trough

What does frequency measure in waves?

• The distance between wave peaks
• The height of the wave
• The number of waves that pass a single point per second
• The speed of the wave

Which equation correctly relates wave speed, frequency, and wavelength?

• v = f + λ
• v = f / λ
• v = f × λ
• v = λ / f

In a transverse wave, how do the vibrations move in relation to the direction of travel?

• In the same direction
• At right angles
• In opposite directions
• In a circular motion

Which of the following is an example of a transverse wave?

• Sound waves
• Water waves
• Light waves
• Compression waves

What are the areas where particles are pushed together in a longitudinal wave called?

• Peaks
• Troughs
• Compressions
• Rarefactions

In a longitudinal wave, how do the vibrations move in relation to the direction of travel?

• At right angles
• In the same direction
• In opposite directions
• In a spiral motion

Which of the following is an example of a longitudinal wave?

• Light waves
• Radio waves
• Sound waves
• X-rays