Question

1. Reread the difference between transverse and longitudinal waves. For each of the following types of waves, tell what type it is and why. (Include a sketch for each.)
   • sound waves
   • water waves in the wake of a boat
   • a vibrating string on a guitar
   • a swinging jump rope
   • the vibrating surface of a drum
   • the “wave” done by spectators at a sports event
   • slowly moving traffic jams

Answer 1

Solution :

1. Sound waves are longitudinal waves as the particles vibrate parallel to wave propagation. Hence it is longitudinal in nature .

2. Water waves on the surface of water are transverse as the particles of the surface vibrates perpendicular to the wave propagation.

3. Vibrating string in guitar has transverse vibration hence transverse wave.

4. The rope swinging would swing up and down to the direction of propagation of wave hence transverse.

5. Vibrating surface of drum would have transverse waves on the surface of drum. However it sends longitudinal vibrations in the air.

6. Spectros would stand and sit which will create effect of a transverse wave.

7. Traffic jams would have an effect of longitudinal wave as vehicles would collect at one place and would again scatter. As they are doing it in the same direction of motion hence longitudinal wave.