Transverse and longitudinal waves

What are the oscillations of a transverse wave?

Perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction in which the waves transfer energy.

What’s an example of transverse waves?

Ripples on the surface of water.

What happens to transverse waves when it goes the direction of energy transfer?

Each point on the rope oscillates up and down repeatedly.

What’s the oscillation of longitudinal waves?

Parallel to the direction in which the waves transfer energy.

What can longitudinal waves cause?

Particles of a substance to be squashed closer together and pulled further apart.

What do longitudinal waves produce?

Areas of compression and rarefraction in the substance.

What’s an example of longitudinal waves?

Sound waves in air.

What does rarefraction look like?

The slinky’s sections are spread apart.

What does compression look like?

The slinky’s sections are together.

What happens to longitudinal waves when it goes the direction of energy transfer?

Each point on the slinky oscillates backwards and forwards repeatedly.