What is the difference between sound and light waves, longitudinal and transverse waves, and mechanical and electromagnetic waves? Also, explain simple harmonic motion (SHM).

Understand the Problem

The question is asking for the differences between various types of waves: sound and light waves, longitudinal and transverse waves, mechanical and electromagnetic waves, and a reference to simple harmonic motion (SHM). Each point aims to clarify the unique characteristics and principles of these concepts in physics.

Answer

Sound: mechanical, needs medium; Light: electromagnetic, travels in vacuum. Longitudinal: parallel oscillations; Transverse: perpendicular. Mechanical requires medium; Electromagnetic doesn't. SHM: periodic motion with proportional restoring force.

Sound waves are mechanical and longitudinal, needing a medium to travel. Light waves are electromagnetic and transverse, can travel in a vacuum. Mechanical waves require a medium; electromagnetic waves don't. Longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to wave motion, transverse waves oscillate perpendicular. SHM is periodic motion where restoring force is proportional to displacement.

More Information

Sound waves compress and rarefy the medium (like air), while light waves are oscillating electric and magnetic fields. SHM examples include pendulums and springs.

Tips

Confusing longitudinal and transverse directions is common. Remember, longitudinal waves compress and expand in the same direction.

Sources

13.1 Types of Waves - Physics | OpenStax - openstax.org
Physics Tutorial: Categories of Waves - physicsclassroom.com
Topic 4: Waves - IB Physics - ibphysics.org

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