Transverse waves and the movement of particles

In summary, the conversation is about a problem involving a wave and particle A's movement. The person is confused because they thought particle A should be moving up with the wave, but websites say it's moving down. They also mention being thrown off by the phrase "next instant of time" and are unsure about how to upload pictures. Another person, Perok, helps clarify the situation by suggesting to draw the wave at a later time.
  • #1
NoIdea2015
6
0

Homework Statement


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Alright, this problem has been driving me into a confused rage. The wave is moving in an upward direction so particle A should be moving up as well, right? But every single website I've used to study claims that it's moving in a downward direction. How?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


This might be way of the mark, but maybe the phrase "next instant of time" is throwing me off? Does that mean the next cycle or the next nanosecond or what?[/B]
 
Last edited:
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  • #3
What happens if you draw the wave a short time later? Leave A where it is. Is A above or below the wave?
 
  • #4
Ahh, alright that clears things up!
Thank you, Perok!
 

What is a transverse wave?

A transverse wave is a type of wave in which the particles of the medium move perpendicular to the direction in which the wave travels. This means that the particles move up and down or side to side as the wave passes through them.

What is the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

The main difference between longitudinal and transverse waves is the direction in which the particles of the medium move. In longitudinal waves, the particles move in the same direction as the wave travels, while in transverse waves, the particles move perpendicular to the wave's direction of travel.

How do particles move in a transverse wave?

In a transverse wave, the particles of the medium move in a back-and-forth motion, perpendicular to the direction in which the wave is traveling. This creates a series of crests and troughs as the wave passes through the medium.

What is the relationship between the wavelength and frequency of a transverse wave?

The wavelength and frequency of a transverse wave are inversely proportional. This means that as the wavelength increases, the frequency decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation c = λf, where c is the speed of the wave, λ is the wavelength, and f is the frequency.

Can transverse waves travel through all types of media?

Transverse waves can only travel through media that have the ability to support shear stress. This includes solids, such as a rope or a guitar string, but not fluids, such as water or air. In fluids, particles are free to move in any direction, making it impossible for transverse waves to propagate.

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