Question

Transverse and longitudinal waves look different, but they are modeled with the same spring as shown in the diagram.



image


What information is needed to determine the difference between the waves?



A.
the length of the spring used to make each wave

B.
the speed and amplitude of the each wave

C.
the distance and direction the spring is initially moved

D.
how long the waves travel before stopping

Answer 1

C

Transverse vs. longitudinal depends on how the medium is disturbed — the direction of the initial displacement relative to the spring (side‑to‑side → transverse; along the spring → longitudinal). Speed, amplitude, length of spring or travel time do not tell you the disturbance direction.