Understanding Longitudinal Waves: Regents Exam Question with No Correct Answer

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on a Regents exam question regarding longitudinal waves, specifically addressing the correct measurement of wavelength. Participants conclude that the correct answer is (2), which states that the wavelength equals the distance between points A and C. This conclusion is supported by the definition of wavelength in longitudinal waves, where measurements are taken from compression to compression or rarefaction to rarefaction. A sketch of the corresponding transverse wave further validates this answer.

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  • Understanding of longitudinal waves and their properties
  • Knowledge of wave terminology, including wavelength, compression, and rarefaction
  • Familiarity with transverse waves and their relationship to longitudinal waves
  • Basic physics concepts related to wave behavior and measurement
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My physics teacher told the class that this question had no valid answer choice (none of the choices were right).

After further research at home today, I think the answer is (2) - or the wavelength is equal to the distance between A and C, as

Physics Classroom said:
In the case of a longitudinal wave, a wavelength measurement is made by measuring the distance from a compression to the next compression or from a rarefaction to the next rarefaction.

http://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/waves/u10l2a.cfm

Help - I have my physics final tomorrow :o!
 
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It looks to me like A and C are both descending nodes, which would mean 2 is a correct choice.

A sketch of the corresponding transverse wave leads to the same answer.
 

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