Transverse & Longitudinal Waves (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Physics): Flashcards
Exam code: 9702
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Define transverse wave.
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Define transverse wave.
A transverse wave is a wave in which the particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction of motion and energy transfer.
Define longitudinal wave.
A longitudinal wave is a wave in which the particles oscillate parallel to the direction of motion and energy transfer.
Which type of wave, transverse or longitudinal, can travel through a vacuum, and why?
Transverse waves can travel through a vacuum because they do not need particles to propagate. Longitudinal waves need particles to propagate, so they cannot travel through a vacuum.
In a longitudinal wave, a compression is a region of .......... pressure, where the particles are closer together.
In a longitudinal wave, a compression is a region of high pressure, where the particles are closer together.
True or False?
Longitudinal waves, such as sound, can be polarised.
False.
Only transverse waves can be polarised, because polarisation restricts oscillation to one plane perpendicular to the direction of travel. Longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to the direction of travel, so they cannot be polarised.
A displacement–time graph shows a wave oscillating periodically. Can this graph alone tell you whether the wave is transverse or longitudinal?
No. Both wave types can produce the same displacement–time graph shape. To identify the wave type you need to know whether the particle displacement is perpendicular (transverse) or parallel (longitudinal) to the direction of energy transfer.
Give one example each of a transverse wave and a longitudinal wave.
Transverse: electromagnetic waves (e.g. light) or vibrations on a guitar string
Longitudinal: sound waves
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