Amplitude of a longitudinal wave in a medium:a)is the extent to which ...
The wavelength can always be determined by measuring the distance between any two corresponding points on adjacent waves. In the case of a longitudinal wave, a wavelength measurement is made by measuring the distance from a compression to the next compression or from a rarefaction to the next rarefaction.
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Amplitude of a longitudinal wave in a medium:a)is the extent to which ...
Amplitude of a Longitudinal Wave in a Medium
The amplitude of a longitudinal wave in a medium refers to the maximum displacement of particles from their rest position as the wave passes through the medium. It is a measure of the intensity or strength of the wave.
Extent of Compression and Rarefaction
- The amplitude can be seen as the extent to which a medium gets compressed when the particles are pushed together by the wave.
- Similarly, it can also be viewed as the extent to which a medium gets rarefied when the particles move apart due to the wave passing through.
Understanding Option (C)
- Option (C) states that the amplitude is either the extent of compression (A) or rarefaction (B) in a medium. This is because the maximum displacement of particles can occur in either direction, depending on the nature of the wave.
- In a longitudinal wave, regions of compression and rarefaction alternate as the wave travels through the medium. The amplitude represents the maximum displacement in either direction.
Conclusion
- Therefore, the correct answer is option (C), as the amplitude of a longitudinal wave in a medium encompasses both the extent of compression and rarefaction. It is a crucial parameter that defines the energy carried by the wave and its impact on the medium.
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