Types of Waves

Front

What are the two main types of mechanical waves?

Back

Transverse waves and longitudinal waves.

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

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

Front

What are compressions in a longitudinal wave?

Back

Regions where particles are close together.

Front

What are rarefactions in a longitudinal wave?

Back

Regions where particles are spread apart.

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

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

Front

What is a wave cycle?

Back

One complete motion of the repeating pattern in a wave.

Front

What is the difference between mechanical waves and electromagnetic waves?

Back

Mechanical waves require a medium to travel through, while electromagnetic waves do not.

Front

What is an example of a mechanical wave?

Back

Sound waves, water waves, and seismic waves.

Front

What is an example of an electromagnetic wave?

Back

Light waves, radio waves, and X-rays.

Front

What type of motion do surface waves exhibit?

Back

Circular motion.