Longitudinal vs. Transverse Waves

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

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

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

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

Front

What is wavelength?

Back

The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs in a wave.

Front

What is amplitude?

Back

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

Front

What is frequency?

Back

The number of waves that pass a given point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Front

What is the relationship between amplitude and energy in a wave?

Back

As amplitude increases, the energy of the wave also increases.

Front

What is a wave?

Back

A disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another.

Front

What is the difference between compression and rarefaction in longitudinal waves?

Back

Compression is a region where particles are close together, while rarefaction is a region where particles are spread apart.

Front

What is the formula for wave speed?

Back

Wave speed = frequency × wavelength.

Front

What happens to the frequency of a wave if the wavelength increases?

Back

The frequency decreases, assuming wave speed remains constant.