Transverse & Longitudinal Waves Review

Front

What is a transverse wave?

Back

A transverse wave is a type of wave where the particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation, such as in light waves.

Front

What is a longitudinal wave?

Back

A longitudinal wave is a type of wave where the particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation, such as in sound waves.

Front

What is frequency in the context of waves?

Back

Frequency is the number of crests (or cycles) that pass a given point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Front

How does wavelength relate to frequency?

Back

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

Front

What is amplitude in a wave?

Back

Amplitude is the maximum displacement of points on a wave from its rest position, indicating the wave's energy.

Front

Can sound waves travel through a vacuum?

Back

No, sound waves cannot travel through a vacuum because they require a medium (like air, water, or solids) to propagate.

Front

What is the medium in the context of wave propagation?

Back

The medium is the substance through which a wave travels, such as air for sound waves or water for water waves.

Front

What is the difference between a crest and a trough in a wave?

Back

A crest is the highest point of a wave, while a trough is the lowest point.

Front

What is the relationship between wave speed, frequency, and wavelength?

Back

Wave speed = frequency × wavelength; this formula shows how these three properties are interconnected.

Front

What is a wave diagram?

Back

A wave diagram visually represents the properties of a wave, including amplitude, wavelength, crest, and trough.