Comparing Transverse and Longitudinal waves
Table of differences:
| Characteristic | Transverse wave | Longitudinal wave |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Wave vibrates at 90 degrees to the direction in which the wave transfers energy | Wave vibrates along the direction in which the wave transfers energy |
| Line diagram contains | Peaks/Crests and Troughs | Compressions and Rarefactions |
| Travel through | Solids and vacuum (but not fluids) | Solids, liquids, gases |
| Medium needed | No (electromagnetic waves can travel in space) Some other transverse waves would need a medium to travel through | Yes (cannot travel in a vacuum) |
| Density | Always same | Density can change |
| Particle motion | Parallel to wave direction | Perpendicular to wave direction |
| Pressure | Pressure is always the same | Regions of high pressure and regions of low pressure |
Similarities of Transverse and Longitudinal Waves
Both transfer energy and information, but not matter
Both Have Wavelength, Frequency, and Amplitude
Both follow the wave speed equation; wave speed = frequency x wavelength
Both can be reflected and refracted
Both have wavefronts
Both can be absorbed. When waves hit a surface, they can be absorbed and converted into other forms of energy, like heat. For example, sound waves can be absorbed by soft materials.
Practice Question
1.Draw two line diagrams to show the difference between a longitudinal wave and a transverse wave
2. State 3 ways that longitudinal waves and transverse waves are different
3. State 3 ways that longitudinal waves and transverse waves are similar
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Accordion Content
Accordion Content