Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

A type of wave where the particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Examples include light waves and water waves.

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

A type of wave where the particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation. An example is a sound wave.

Front

What are examples of transverse waves?

Back

Water waves and light waves.

Front

What are examples of longitudinal waves?

Back

Sound waves and seismic P-waves.

Front

How do the vibrations in a longitudinal wave move?

Back

The vibrations move parallel to the direction of energy transfer.

Front

What is the relationship between wavelength and frequency in waves?

Back

Wavelength is inversely proportional to frequency; as wavelength increases, frequency decreases.

Front

What is wave amplitude?

Back

The maximum displacement of points on a wave from the rest position, indicating the energy of the wave.

Front

What is wave speed?

Back

The speed at which a wave travels through a medium, calculated as wave speed = frequency × wavelength.

Front

What is the difference between mechanical and electromagnetic waves?

Back

Mechanical waves require a medium to travel through (e.g., sound waves), while electromagnetic waves do not (e.g., light waves).

Front

What is a compressional wave?

Back

A type of longitudinal wave where areas of compression and rarefaction move through the medium.