Waves: Longitudinal and Transverse Flashcard

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

A wave in which particles of the medium move parallel to the direction of the wave.

Front

What are compressions in a longitudinal wave?

Back

Areas where particles are close together.

Front

What are rarefactions in a longitudinal wave?

Back

Areas where particles are spread apart.

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

A wave in which particles of the medium move perpendicular to the direction of the wave.

Front

What is an example of a transverse wave?

Back

Light waves and waves on a string.

Front

What is the medium for sound waves?

Back

Sound waves require a medium such as air, water, or solids to travel.

Front

What is the medium for ocean waves?

Back

Water.

Front

What is a characteristic of transverse waves?

Back

Particles move up and down.

Front

What is a characteristic of longitudinal waves?

Back

Particles move parallel to the direction of the wave.

Front

What type of wave can travel through a vacuum?

Back

Light waves.