Question

Identify the properties of transverse and longitudinal waves.

Amplitude:

Compression:

Frequency:

Period:

Wavelength:

Answer 1

Here is how each property applies to transverse and longitudinal waves.

1. Amplitude
- Definition: the maximum displacement of particles from their equilibrium position (a measure of wave strength).
- Transverse: maximum displacement perpendicular to the direction of wave travel (height of crests/troughs). Units: m.
- Longitudinal: maximum displacement of particles along the direction of travel, often seen as the maximum compression/rarefaction magnitude (or pressure variation). Units: m (or pressure units for pressure amplitude).

2. Compression
- Definition: regions where particles are pushed together (high density/pressure).
- Transverse: do not have compressions/rarefactions (no longitudinal densification).
- Longitudinal: have alternating compressions and rarefactions along the direction of propagation (e.g., sound waves have compressions = high-pressure regions).

3. Frequency
- Definition: number of complete oscillations (cycles) per second. Unit: hertz (Hz).
- Transverse: same definition — number of crest/trough cycles per second.
- Longitudinal: same definition — number of compression/rarefaction cycles per second.

4. Period
- Definition: time for one complete cycle; T = 1/f. Unit: seconds (s).
- Transverse: same meaning — time between successive crests passing a point.
- Longitudinal: same meaning — time between successive compressions passing a point.

5. Wavelength
- Definition: distance over which the wave’s shape repeats.
- Transverse: distance between adjacent crests (or troughs) measured along propagation direction. Unit: meters (m).
- Longitudinal: distance between adjacent compressions (or adjacent rarefactions) along the direction of travel.

General relation (both types): wave speed v = frequency × wavelength (v = f λ). Examples: transverse — light, waves on a string; longitudinal — sound in air.