Describing waves
4 marks · NormalA student uses a slinky spring to demonstrate waves.
Describe how the student could produce a transverse wave using the slinky.
Describe how the student could produce a longitudinal wave using the slinky.
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(a) Move one end of the slinky side to side at right angles to its length to create a transverse wave. · must show side to side, right angles to length
(b) Push and pull the end of the slinky along its length to create a longitudinal wave. · must show push and pull, along the length
Also accept: Student may describe different directions of motion or suitable hand movements
Common mistakes: Mixing up the direction for each wave
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 2 marks · States moving slinky side to side/right angles to its length for transverse wave (1); Describes wave travels along spring (1).
B2 (b) · 2 marks · States pushing and pulling along length for longitudinal wave (1); Describes compressions/rarefactions or how wave travels along the length (1).
Worked solution
a) The student moves one end of the slinky side to side at right angles (perpendicular) to its length. This sends transverse waves along the slinky.
b) The student pushes and pulls the end of the slinky along the length of the spring, creating compressions and rarefactions. This produces longitudinal waves.