Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) Secondary Integrated Science Practice test

What characterizes transverse waves?

1. They are parallel to the wave of motion

2. They are perpendicular to the wave of motion

3. They undergo refraction only

4. They cannot interfere with other waves

The correct answer is: They are perpendicular to the wave of motion

Transverse waves are characterized by their motion in which the particles of the medium move perpendicular to the direction of the wave propagation. This means that if the wave is traveling in a horizontal direction, the particles of the medium will move up and down or side to side. A classic example of this is waves on a string or electromagnetic waves, where the oscillation of the electric and magnetic fields occurs at right angles to the direction of energy transfer. In contrast, longitudinal waves, such as sound waves in air, involve particle movement that is parallel to the direction of wave motion. Additionally, the other options may imply incorrect characteristics of wave behavior. For instance, while waves can undergo refraction, this is not exclusive to transverse waves. Lastly, waves can indeed interfere with each other, whether they are transverse or longitudinal, which is a fundamental feature of wave mechanics.