Chapter 14, Problem 52A

To determine

The differences between transverse, longitudinal, and surface waves.

Answer to Problem 52A

The motion of the transverse, longitudinal and surface waves are different from each other. The pattern in which the particle in each wave travel or moves in the medium differentiates these waves from one another.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Wave is an oscillation that transfers energy and momentum through medium or space. There are different types of waves, they are transverse, longitudinal and surface waves.

In the transverse waves, the oscillations of the particles in the medium are moved in a perpendicular direction to the direction in which the wave travels. Examples include the vibrations on a string.

In the longitudinal waves, the oscillations of the particles in the medium move in a parallel direction to the direction in which the wave travels.

A transverse wave is a wave that causes the particles of the given medium to vibrate in the direction of the wave in which it is moving.

A longitudinal wave is a wave that causes the particles of the medium to vibrate in the direction to which the wave is parallel.

Surface waves are considered to have the characteristics of both waves.

Conclusion:

The transverse, longitudinal and surface waves differ from each other on the basis of the pattern of their propagation and the movement of their constituent particles.