Question

Select all that apply.

A longitudinal wave is characterized by _____.
peaks compressions dips rarefactions

Answer 1

It's characterized by both compression and rarefaction.

(the compression in front of the waves induces a rarefaction behind the wave)

Answer 2

A longitudinal wave is characterized by rarefactions. A longitudinal wave is a wave motion wherein the particles in the wave medium are displaced parallel to the advancing wave. When motion is detected from the source, the particle next to it vibrates from its rest position and a progressive change in phase vibration is observed at each particle within that wave. The result is that the energy is transported from one region to the other. These combined motions result in the movement of alternating regions of rarefaction in the direction of transport of energy.