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Question

Consider the following statements regarding waves :
1. If the particles of a medium move along the direction of motion of the wave, the wave is called a longitudinal wave.
2. If the particles of a medium move perpendicular to the direction of motion of the wave, the wave is called a transverse wave.
3. Transverse waves may involve change in the shape of the medium, whereas longitudinal waves involve change in the density of the medium.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

This question was previously asked in
CDS 1 2026 Maths Question Paper (12-Apr-2026)
The correct answer is
1, 2 and 3

Wave Statements Analysis

This question asks to identify the correct statements about wave properties, specifically longitudinal and transverse waves.

Statement 1: Longitudinal Wave Definition

  • A longitudinal wave is defined by the motion of the medium's particles.
  • In a longitudinal wave, particles oscillate back and forth parallel to the direction the wave travels.
  • Sound waves are a common example.
  • Therefore, Statement 1 is correct.

Statement 2: Transverse Wave Definition

  • A transverse wave is characterized by particle oscillation relative to wave direction.
  • In a transverse wave, particles move perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
  • Examples include light waves and waves on a string.
  • Therefore, Statement 2 is correct.

Statement 3: Wave Characteristics Comparison

  • Transverse waves cause disturbances perpendicular to the wave's path, often leading to changes in the medium's shape (like a ripple on water or a wave on a rope).
  • Longitudinal waves cause compressions and rarefactions parallel to the wave's path, resulting in changes in the medium's density and pressure (like sound).
  • Therefore, Statement 3 is correct.

Conclusion

All three statements accurately describe the properties and definitions of longitudinal and transverse waves.

  • Statement 1: Correct
  • Statement 2: Correct
  • Statement 3: Correct

Thus, all statements (1, 2, and 3) are correct.

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Important Questions from Waves

  1. Visible light's wavelength range _________.

  2. If the frequency of a sound wave is 50 Hz, then what is its time period?

  3. Hertz is the SI unit of ________.

  4. A running race is organized between ultrasonics, audible and infrasonic waves in a medium, then the winner is:

  5. When a light wave travels from air to water, then which property remain unchanged ?

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