2026 · Q20
Consider the following statements regarding waves:
- 1If the particles of a medium move along the direction of motion of the wave, the wave is called a longitudinal wave.
- 2If the particles of a medium move perpendicular to the direction of motion of the wave, the wave is called a transverse wave.
- 3Transverse waves may involve change in the shape of the medium, whereas longitudinal waves involve change in the density of the medium.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
General KnowledgePhysics
- A1 and 2 only
- B1 only
- C2 and 3 only
- D1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Statement 1 correctly defines a longitudinal wave, in which medium particles oscillate along the direction of wave propagation (as in sound). Statement 2 correctly defines a transverse wave, with particles oscillating perpendicular to propagation (as in light). Statement 3 is also correct: transverse waves involve shear, i.e., change of shape (which is why they cannot travel through fluids), while longitudinal waves involve compressions and rarefactions, i.e., density changes. All three statements are correct.