Topic 4 - Waves - Types Of Waves Flashcards

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1
Q

What is a transverse wave?

A

A wave where vibrations are at right angles to the direction of travel

Examples include light waves, seismic S waves, and water waves.

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2
Q

What are the characteristics of transverse waves?

A

Has peaks and troughs

The vibrations create a wave pattern that includes high points (peaks) and low points (troughs).

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3
Q

What is a longitudinal wave?

A

A wave where vibrations are in the same direction as the direction of travel

Examples include sound waves and seismic P waves.

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4
Q

What are the components of longitudinal waves?

A

Has compressions and rarefactions

Compressions are regions where particles are close together, while rarefactions are regions where particles are spread apart.

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