Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A longitudinal wave is a type of wave where the particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation. Sound waves in air are a common example.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
In a longitudinal wave, compressions and rarefactions occur along the direction of wave propagation.
Sound waves are the most common examples of longitudinal waves.
The wavelength in a longitudinal wave is the distance between two consecutive compressions or rarefactions.
Longitudinal waves can propagate through solids, liquids, and gases.
The speed of a longitudinal wave depends on the medium's elasticity and density.
Review Questions
Related terms
Transverse Wave: A type of wave where particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.