Question Constellation Sign up for free AQA · GCSE · Combined Science · Higher
Longitudinal waves and transverse waves
Describe the difference between longitudinal waves and transverse waves.
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Marking points
- 1 State that in longitudinal waves the oscillations or vibrations are parallel to the direction of energy transfer or wave travel.
- 2 State that in transverse waves the oscillations or vibrations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer or wave travel.
Full-mark answer
In a longitudinal wave, the oscillations are parallel to the direction of energy transfer. In a transverse wave, the oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer.
Why this answer loses marks
Longitudinal waves move forwards and transverse waves move sideways.
The answer must compare the direction of oscillations with the direction of energy transfer or wave travel.