6.1.1 Transverse & Longitudinal Waves

• What are waves defined as?

  Waves are disturbances that transfer energy from one place to another without transferring matter.
• How can waves travel?

  Waves can travel through a medium or through a vacuum.
• What is the definition of transverse waves?

  In transverse waves, the oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of the wave's energy transfer.
• Can you name examples of transverse waves?

  Examples include light waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves.
• What are the characteristics of transverse waves?

  • Crests and Troughs: Highest points are crests, lowest points are troughs.
  • Wavelength: Distance between two successive crests or troughs.
  • Amplitude: Height from rest position to crest or trough.
  • Frequency: Number of complete waves passing a point in one second (measured in Hertz, Hz).
  • Diagram: Appears as a series of repeating crests and troughs.
• What is the definition of longitudinal waves?

  In longitudinal waves, the oscillations are parallel to the direction of the wave's energy transfer.
• Can you name examples of longitudinal waves?

  Examples include sound waves, seismic P-waves, and compression waves in a spring.
• What are the characteristics of longitudinal waves?

  • Compressions and Rarefactions: Regions where particles are close together are compressions, and regions where particles are spread out are rarefactions.
  • Wavelength: Distance between two successive compressions or rarefactions.
  • Amplitude: Extent of displacement from the rest position, less visually obvious than in transverse waves.
  • Frequency: Measures how many compressions or rarefactions pass a point in one second.
  • Diagram: Appears as a series of compressions and rarefactions.
• What are the key differences between transverse and longitudinal waves?

  • Direction of Oscillations:
  • Transverse: Perpendicular to wave direction.
  • Longitudinal: Parallel to wave direction.
  • Wave Types:
  • Transverse: Includes light, radio waves, and other electromagnetic waves.
  • Longitudinal: Includes sound waves, ultrasound, and pressure waves.
• What are some real-life applications of transverse and longitudinal waves?

  • Transverse Waves:
  • Light allows us to see.
  • Radio waves enable communication.
  • Longitudinal Waves:
  • Sound lets us hear.
  • Seismic waves help us study earthquakes.
• What are some exam tips for studying waves?

  • Draw Diagrams: Clearly label the parts of waves (wavelength, amplitude, etc.).
  • Understand Examples: Be ready to identify and describe real-life examples of each type of wave.
  • Practice Questions: Solve problems related to wave speed, frequency, and wavelength using the formula:

  $\text{wave speed} =$$\text{frequency} \times \text{wavelength}$
• What is the summary of wave types?

  • Transverse waves move perpendicular to the wave direction.
  • Longitudinal waves move parallel to the wave direction.
  • Identifying and differentiating between these two types is key to understanding wave behavior in GCSE Physics.