Question

How is a progressive wave different from a standing wave? Must standing waves be orbital waves only, or can standing waves also form in shaken ropes or pushed-and-pulled springs?

a) Progressive waves move; Standing waves do not move; Only orbital waves can form standing waves
b) Progressive waves do not move; Standing waves move; Only orbital waves can form standing waves
c) Both move; Standing waves have higher speed; Only orbital waves can form standing waves
d) Both move; Standing waves do not have definite speed; Standing waves can form in various mediums

Answer 1

A progressive wave transfers energy through space, while a standing wave does not travel but has points that seem to stand still due to superposition. Standing waves can be created in various media, including ropes and springs, and are characterized by nodes and antinodes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference between a progressive wave and a standing wave is that a progressive wave moves through space, transferring energy from one place to another, whereas a standing wave does not travel but instead vibrates in place. Standing waves are formed by the superposition of two or more waves moving in opposite directions, leading to points of constructive and destructive interference where the amplitude appears to stand still. Standing waves can form in various mediums, not just orbital waves, but also in media like shaken ropes or pushed-and-pulled springs. An example of such formation can be noticed when a stretched spring supports transverse waves or longitudinal waves. Nodes and antinodes characterize these standing waves, where nodes are points that do not move, and antinodes are points with maximum amplitude.