Key relationship
s(x,t)=A sin[2π(x/λ−ft)]; wave speed=fλ.
Physics · Class 11
Compare transverse and longitudinal motion
A wave carries a disturbance through a medium. In a transverse wave particles move perpendicular to propagation; in a longitudinal wave they move parallel to it. Follow the highlighted particle to distinguish particle oscillation from the traveling pattern.
Open the interactive experiment →Compare transverse and longitudinal motion
குறுக்கலையில் துகள்கள் பரவல் திசைக்கு செங்குத்தாகவும் நெட்டலையில் அதே திசையிலும் அதிர்கின்றன. துகள்கள் அலையுடன் தொடர்ந்து பயணிப்பதில்லை.
Key notes, relationships and model limits
Remember
A wave carries a disturbance through a medium. In a transverse wave particles move perpendicular to propagation; in a longitudinal wave they move parallel to it. Follow the highlighted particle to distinguish particle oscillation from the traveling pattern.
Common trap
The speed of a particle is not the propagation speed of the wave.
Model limits
Ideal one-dimensional harmonic wave. Particle displacement is exaggerated on the display; particles oscillate about equilibrium without moving along with the wave.
What you will learn
Compare wave propagation with local transverse and longitudinal particle motion.
Try the experiment
Try both scenarios, change one control, and predict the result before checking the graph and readouts.
Think of it this way
Change one input while keeping the others fixed, as you would in a controlled experiment.
Worked example
For λ=2 m and f=0.5 Hz, wave speed=1 m/s. The tracked particle repeats its motion every 2 s and has no net transport in this model.
Why this matters
The model connects compare transverse and longitudinal motion with an observable reading. Check the equation and assumptions before applying it.
Before you start
SI units · algebra · graph reading
Check your understanding
In a longitudinal wave, which way do particles oscillate?
- Perpendicular to propagation
- Parallel to the direction of wave propagation
- Continuously forward at the wave speed
Read the explanation
Longitudinal means displacement along the same line as propagation, producing compressions and rarefactions.
Course connection: Class XI Chapter 14. Consult the roadmap for CBSE, NEET, JEE Main and Advanced scope.