Types of Waves

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1

In seismology, the wave is a transverse wave. As an wave travels through the Earth, the relative motion between the wave and the particles is

Parallel

Perpendicular

First parallel, then perpendicular

First perpendicular, then parallel

Explanation

Transverse waves are waves whose particles travel perpendicular to the direction that the wave itself is traveling. Electromagnetic waves are another example of transverse waves.

2

Which of the following waves require a medium to travel?

Light Waves

Sound Waves

Microwaves

Explanation

Electromagnetic waves are the only type of wave that do not require a medium to travel. Light, radio and microwaves are examples of electromagnetic waves. Sound does require a medium to travel. In a vacuum sound waves cannot travel as there is no air to compress.

3

In seismology, the wave is a longitudinal wave. As an wave travels through the Earth, the relative motion between the wave and the particles is

Parallel

Perpendicular

First parallel, then perpendicular

First perpendicular, then parallel

Explanation

Longitudinal waves are waves whose particles travel parallel to the direction that the wave itself is traveling. Sound waves are another example of longitudinal waves.

4

A radio station broadcasts at a frequency of . If the broadcast is an electromagnetic wave, then what is its wavelength?

Explanation

The relationship between wavelength and frequency is given by the equation , where is the wavelength, is the speed of light, and is frequency.

We are given the values for frequency and the speed of light, allowing us to solve for the wavelength.

5

In a vacuum, the velocity of all electromagnetic waves

Is zero

Is nearly

depends on the frequency

depends on the amplitude

Explanation

Electromagnetic waves all travel at the same speed which is the speed of light. The speed of light in a vacuum is nearly