Why Does a Transverse Wave Show Particle Movement Downwards?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of particles in a transverse wave, specifically focusing on the movement of a particle labeled "P" at a given time. Participants are examining the discrepancy between their understanding of particle motion and the provided mark scheme, which indicates downward movement.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the expected direction of particle movement at time 0.0s, with some suggesting it should be upwards, while the mark scheme states it is downwards. There are inquiries about the positioning of particle P on the wave at a later time and clarifications regarding the interpretation of the wave diagram.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants expressing confusion and seeking further clarification on the nature of the wave and the specific question being asked. Some have attempted to clarify their understanding of the wave's representation, but no consensus has been reached yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working with a diagram that depicts two snapshots of the wave at different times, and there seems to be a lack of clarity regarding the orientation and movement of particle P in relation to the wave's propagation.

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Homework Statement



Now I know transverse waves have their particles oscillation 90 degree to their propagation.So for this question shouldn't the particle movement be "Vertically upwards at time 0.0s" for P.That's what I thought but the mark scheme I have been given states "downwards".
I don't quite get it. http://img141.imageshack.us/i/39942835.png/"
Any help will be appreciated. =]

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Where would you locate particle P on the dotted curve "a short time later"?
 
Isn't the question asking for the orientation of the particle "P" on the bold line at 0.0s ?
Sorry I should have been more clearer in my OP.The question puzzling me is : 6 (b)(i)
 
ibysaiyan said:
Isn't the question asking for the orientation of the particle "P" on the bold line at 0.0s ?
Sorry I should have been more clearer in my OP.The question puzzling me is : 6 (b)(i)

The question is asking about the direction of travel of the particle at point P. The diagram depicts two snapshots of the wave separated by a short time interval.

So, where would you locate particle P on the dotted curve "a short time later"?
 
Oh dear I still don't get it...
 
ibysaiyan said:
Oh dear I still don't get it...

I'm not sure how to make it much clearer. Tell you what, why don't you explain, in your own words, what the two curves in the figure represent?
 

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