A wave generated in a medium is a longitudinal wave when
A) there is a net transport of matter by the wave.
B) the molecules of the medium are unable to exert forces on each other.
C) molecular displacements are parallel to the wave velocity.
D) molecular displacements are perpendicular to the wave velocity.
E) the density of the medium is less than the density of water.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A longitudinal wave is a type of wave in which the displacement of the medium is parallel to the direction of the wave. In other words, the particles of the medium vibrate back and forth along the same axis as the wave is propagating. This is in contrast to a transverse wave, in which the particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of the wave. Therefore, choice C is the correct answer, as it describes the key characteristic of a longitudinal wave.

A Wave Generated in a Medium Is a Longitudinal Wave