Longitudinal Waves

Question 1

In what direction do wave particles oscillate?

Answer 1

parallel to direction of wave travel

Question 2

What is a compression?

Answer 2

higher particle density (greater pressure than Atmospheric)

Question 3

What is a rarefaction?

Answer 3

lower particle density (lower pressure than Atmospheric)

Question 4

What is wavelength in a longitudinal wave?

Answer 4

distance between successive rarefactions or compressions
OR distance between successive particles oscillating in place

Question 5

What are some examples of longitudinal waves?

Answer 5

sound, springs, seismic p-waves (primary)