Concepts Of Physics MCQ Edition [Volume 1]PhysicsWave Motion and Waves on a String
A longitudinal wave is unable to
Options
- Apossess a unique wave velocity
- Bundergo polarization
- Cpossess a unique wavelength
- Dtransfer energy
Correct answer
B. undergo polarization
Step-by-step solution
Polarization is a phenomenon restricted to transverse waves, where the direction of oscillation is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. In longitudinal waves, the particles of the medium oscillate along the direction of wave propagation. Since there is only one axis of oscillation, longitudinal waves cannot be polarized. Like all waves, longitudinal waves transfer energy and can possess a unique wave velocity and wavelength.