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Longitudinal
In a longitudinal wave, particles vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel through compressions and rarefactions.
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Longitudinal
The wave travels forward and particles move back-and-forth in the same direction.
Recommended for Class 10
Longitudinal
In a longitudinal wave, particles vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel.
The wave consists of:
compressions — regions where particles are closer together;
rarefactions — regions where particles are farther apart.
Examples
sound waves in air; P seismic waves; * compression waves in a spring.
Longitudinal — Advanced
Longitudinal waves propagate through alternating variations in pressure, density, or particle displacement along the propagation direction.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistakes
- Mistake
Longitudinal does not mean particles permanently move forward.
- Mistake
They oscillate back and forth around equilibrium.
Revision Zone
60-Second Revision
Quick cues from this topic — use them for last-minute revision.
Vibration ∥ propagation
Compression → crowded
Rarefaction → spread out
- Definition
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Practice
PQ
Q1. Define longitudinal wave.
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Q2. Define compression.
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Q3. Define rarefaction.
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Q4. Give two examples.
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Q5. Compare with transverse.
Exam Practice
EQ
Q1. Define longitudinal wave.
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Q2. Define compression.
EQ
Q3. Define rarefaction.
EQ
Q4. Give two examples.
EQ
Q5. Compare with transverse.
School-standard facts for Matric and Intermediate. Original explanations — not copied from textbooks.