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IB Physics HL C.2.4 Transverse and Longitudinal Waves Question Bank

Practise IB Physics HL C.2.4 by interpreting particle motion, compression patterns, rarefactions and polarization across wave models.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Physics HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Infer particle direction and compression or rarefaction from displacement–position graphs.
  • Distinguish transverse and longitudinal propagation using displacement and energy directions.
  • Use polarization and standing-wave evidence to justify the wave classification.

C.2.4—Transverse and longitudinal waves question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

A spring, such as that in (a), is stretched horizontally and a longitudinal travelling wave is set up in the spring, travelling to the right.

Describe, in terms of the propagation of energy, what is meant by a longitudinal travelling wave.

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