Unit: Waves
Year: 1993 Question#: 38
Question: The diagram below shows a transverse pulse moving to the right in a string.
Which diagram best represents the motion of point P as the pulse passes point P ?
(1 )
(2 )
(3 ) 
(4
) 
answer hereWhat is this question really asking?
Explanation by: Steve W.
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Answer 1
CORRECT
The very definition of a transverse wave is that the disturbance is at a right angle to the motion of the wave. Point P would move purely up and down. return to top
Answer 2
INCORRECT
This would be true for a longitudinal wave but not for a transverse wave. This is the direction the wave moves but it is NOT the direction that a point on that wave would move. return to top
Answer 3
INCORRECT
These arrows might describe what the wave looks like but it is not the motion of point P. return to top
Answer 4
INCORRECT
This circular shape describes nothing related to the motion of point P. return to top
What's this question really asking?
This question is asking you if you know the definition of a transverse wave. A transverse wave is described as a wave where the disturbance (motion of the particles) is at a right angle to the motion of the wave. return to top
