Understanding Mechanical Waves

What is a key characteristic of mechanical waves?

• They are always visible.

• They require a medium to propagate.

• They do not require a medium to propagate.

• They can only travel through solids.

Which of the following is an example of a mechanical wave?

• Sound wave

• Microwave

• Light wave

• Radio wave

In longitudinal waves, how do particles of the medium move?

• Perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation

• In a random pattern

• Back and forth along the direction of wave propagation

• In a circular motion

What happens during the compression phase of a longitudinal wave?

• Particles stop moving

• Particles are far apart

• Particles move in a circular motion

• Particles are close together

What is the term for the region where particles are far apart in a longitudinal wave?

• Rarefaction

• Crest

• Compression

• Trough

In transverse waves, how do particles of the medium move?

• Perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation

• In a circular motion

• In a random pattern

• Back and forth along the direction of wave propagation

Which of the following is an example of a transverse wave?

• Seismic wave

• Light wave

• Water wave

• Sound wave

What is the highest point of a transverse wave called?

• Rarefaction

• Trough

• Crest

• Compression

How do the crests and troughs of a transverse wave move in relation to the wave's direction?

• In a zigzag pattern

• In a circular motion

• Perpendicular to the wave's direction

• Parallel to the wave's direction

What is a key difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

• Longitudinal waves are always faster than transverse waves.

• Longitudinal waves do not require a medium, while transverse waves do.

• Longitudinal waves have particles moving parallel to the wave direction, while transverse waves have particles moving perpendicular.

• Longitudinal waves have particles moving perpendicular to the wave direction, while transverse waves have particles moving parallel.