CDS 2026 (I) General Knowledge, question 20

Topic: Physics

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Q20

Consider the following statements regarding waves :

  1. If the particles of a medium move along the direction of motion of the wave, the wave is called a longitudinal wave.

  2. If the particles of a medium move perpendicular to the direction of motion of the wave, the wave is called a transverse wave.

  3. Transverse waves may involve change in the shape of the medium, whereas longitudinal waves involve change in the density of the medium.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

  1. (a) 1 and 2 only
  2. (b) 1 only
  3. (c) 2 and 3 only
  4. (d) 1, 2 and 3Correct answer

Solution.

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

  1. All three statements are correct in the mechanical-wave context.
  2. Longitudinal oscillations run parallel to propagation and produce compressions and rarefactions.
  3. Transverse oscillations are perpendicular and can change the medium’s shape.