Topic 4 - Waves - Types Of Waves Flashcards
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.
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).
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.
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.