Compression
Definition
Compression occurs when particles in a medium are pushed close together, resulting in an area with high pressure and density.
Related terms
Rarefaction: Rarefaction happens when particles spread apart in a medium, resulting in an area with low pressure and density.
Longitudinal Wave: A longitudinal wave consists of compressions and rarefactions moving parallel to each other.
Sound Wave: Sound waves are examples of longitudinal waves that require particles to compress and rarefy in order to transmit sound energy.
"Compression" appears in:
Subjects (2)
AP Computer Science Principles
AP Physics 1
Study guides (1)
AP Physics 2 - 6.1 Waves
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About Us
About Fiveable
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CCPA Privacy Policy
Resources
Cram Mode
AP Score Calculators
Study Guides
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Glossary
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Crisis Text Line
Help Center
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.