- Create a labelled diagram to illustrate the distinction between transverse and longitudinal wave types. Briefly describe how the particle motion differs in each case. (3 marks)
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- Describe a difference between electromagnetic waves and mechanical waves, giving an example of each. (2 marks)
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- A beam of light has a frequency of \(5.0 \times 10^{14}\ \text{Hz}\). Calculate the wavelength of this light in metres. (1 mark)
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Show Answers Only
a.
- For transverse waves, particles move at 90 degrees to the direction of energy transfer.
- For longitudinal waves, particles move back and forward in the same direction as the energy transfer.
b. Electromagnetic wave example: radio wave.
- EMR does not require a medium to travel through. i.e. they can travel through a vacuum.
Mechanical wave example: sound wave.
- Mechanical waves require a medium to travel through.
c. \(6 \times 10^{-7}\ \text{m}\).
Show Worked Solution
a.
- For transverse waves, particles move at 90 degrees to the direction of energy transfer.
- For longitudinal waves, particles move back and forward in the same direction as the energy transfer.
b. Electromagnetic wave example: radio wave.
- EMR does not require a medium to travel through. i.e. they can travel through a vacuum.
Mechanical wave example: sound wave.
- Mechanical waves require a medium to travel through.
c. Using \(v = f \lambda\):
\(\lambda = \dfrac{v}{f} = \dfrac{3 \times 10^8}{5.0 \times 10^{14}} = 6 \times 10^{-7}\ \text{m}\).
