In longitudinal waves, which of the following options describes the direction of motion of the particles of the medium through which the wave is propagating?
-
A.
No motion of the particle
-
B.
Move in a direction parallel to the direction of propagation
-
C.
Move in random directions
-
D.
Up and down about their mean position
Correct Answer:
B. Move in a direction parallel to the direction of propagation
Explanation:
In longitudinal waves, particles of the medium oscillate back and forth along the same path that the wave travels. This means the vibration of the particles occurs in a direction parallel to the flow of energy. A common example of this phenomenon is a sound wave moving through air, where air molecules compress and rarefy in the same direction as the wave's advancement. In contrast, transverse waves involve particle motion that is perpendicular to the direction of wave travel. Therefore, the characteristic movement for a longitudinal wave is parallel alignment between particle displacement and wave propagation.
Click below to open Discussion & Feedback
0 Issues
Please
login to comment or Report Issues.