Transverse and Longitudinal Waves



Choose a transverse or longitudinal wave.
Push the 'Start' button ... a generated wave will travel toward the right.
Push 'Stop' button and change the wave type.

Some things to consider:
  1. In 'Transverse Wave' mode, examine the light blue piece of the rope. Watch it move as the wave passes by. In what direction does it move? Is this true for all pieces of the rope?
  2. In 'Longitutinal Wave' mode, examine the same light blue piece of rope. Which way does it move now as a wave passes? Is this also true for each piece of the rope?
  3. What is it that actually moves from one end of the rope to the other, as a wave moves down the rope?

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