Describing waves
3 marks · NormalDescribe one example each of a transverse wave and a longitudinal wave, and for each, state clearly how the particles vibrate compared to the direction of wave travel.
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A water wave is transverse; its particles vibrate up and down at right angles to the direction the wave moves. A sound wave is longitudinal; its particles vibrate back and forth along the same direction as the wave moves.
Common mistakes: Swapping directions or examples
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · States a correct transverse wave example and vibration direction.
B1 · 1 mark · States a correct longitudinal wave example and vibration direction.
B1 · 1 mark · Mentions how particle vibrations compare to the direction of travel for both.
Worked solution
A water wave is a transverse wave: water particles vibrate at right angles to the direction of energy travel. A sound wave in air is a longitudinal wave: air particles vibrate back and forth along the same direction as the wave travels.