Model Paper 6 — Physics STD 11 Science — Question

Longitudinal waves are the waves in which medium particles vibrate to and fro about their mean positions along a straight line parallel to the direction of wave propagation. In a longitudinal wave, each particle of matter vibrates about its normal rest position and along the axis of propagation, and all particles participating in the wave motion behave in the same manner, except that there is a progressive change in phase of vibration-i.e.,each particle completes its cycle of reaction at a later time. The combined motions result in the advance of alternating regions of compression and rarefaction in the direction of propagation. Waves setup in springs, waves set up in air columns (organ pipes), sound waves, transfer of motion from the engine to last bogey (or wagon) in a train etc., are common examples of longitudinal waves.