Figure 7 represents a transverse wave. Which arrow represents the amplitude of the wave?
Answer options:
A.
A
B.
B
C.
C
D.
D
How to approach this question
Recall the definition of amplitude for a transverse wave. It is the maximum displacement or distance moved by a point on a vibrating body or wave measured from its equilibrium position. Identify the arrow that correctly labels this.
Full Answer
A.A✓ Correct
A
The amplitude of a wave is the maximum displacement from the equilibrium (or rest) position. The dashed line represents the equilibrium position.
- Arrow A shows the distance from the equilibrium position to the peak of the wave. This is the definition of amplitude.
- Arrow B shows the distance between two consecutive peaks. This is the wavelength.
- Arrow C shows the total distance from a peak to a trough. This is twice the amplitude.
- Arrow D shows the horizontal distance for half a wave cycle.
Common mistakes
✗ Confusing amplitude with wavelength (B).\n✗ Confusing amplitude with the peak-to-trough distance (C).
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