Explain the difference between a transverse wave and a longitudinal wave. In your answer, describe how the particles move in each type of wave relative to the direction the wave travels, and give one example of each.

WJEC A-Level Physics (Wales) — 2.5 Wave properties · Explain · 5 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (5 marks)

A transverse wave is one in which the particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction in which the wave energy travels. For example, a wave on a string or a light wave.
A longitudinal wave is one in which the particles vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel, producing alternating regions of compression and rarefaction. For example, a sound wave in air.

Examiner tips

  • Use the word 'perpendicular' for transverse and 'parallel' for longitudinal.
  • Mention compressions and rarefactions for longitudinal waves.
  • Give a clear example of each type of wave.
  • Keep the answer concise and to the point.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing the direction of particle motion with the direction of wave travel.
  • Using 'parallel' for a transverse wave or 'perpendicular' for a longitudinal wave.
  • Failing to mention compressions/rarefactions for longitudinal waves.

Mark scheme (5 marks)

  1. In a transverse wave, particles oscillate/vibrate perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of wave travel/energy transfer
  2. In a longitudinal wave, particles oscillate/vibrate parallel to (in the same direction as) the direction of wave travel/energy transfer
  3. Longitudinal wave described in terms of compressions and rarefactions
  4. A correct example of a transverse wave given
  5. A correct example of a longitudinal wave given

Key terms in this question

transverse wave · longitudinal wave

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