11.6 - Transverse vs. Longitudinal Waves

Which statement best explains the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

• Longitudinal waves have troughs, while transverse waves have crests.
• Longitudinal waves produce energy, while transverse waves consume energy.
• Particles in longitudinal waves travel towards a force, while particles in transverse wave travel away from a force.
• Particles in longitudinal waves travel in the direction of the wave, while particles in transverse waves travel perpendicular to the wave.

Which of these is the best way to produce a longitudinal wave?

• heating a block of iron
• freezing a tray of water
• squeezing and releasing a metal spring
• shaking a rope up and down

Which diagram best represents the motion of a particle in a transverse wave?

• A
• B
• C
• D

Which diagram best demonstrates a particle moving in a transverse wave?

• A
• B
• C
• D

• amplitude
• frequency
• wavelength
• equilibrium