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Chapter 7: Problem 29

If \(\mathrm{AC}\) in a circuit can be thought of as a wave, which kind is it, longitudinal or transverse?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Explain your answer. Answer: AC in a circuit can be considered a transverse wave when represented as an electromagnetic wave variation. This is because electromagnetic waves exhibit transverse wave properties, with electric and magnetic fields perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. However, it is important to note that AC is not a mechanical wave like longitudinal or transverse waves; it is an electrical signal representing the flow of electric charge in a circuit.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Longitudinal and Transverse Waves

An important distinction between waves is whether they are longitudinal or transverse. In longitudinal waves, the displacement of particles in the medium is parallel to the direction of wave propagation. Sound waves are an example of longitudinal waves. In transverse waves, the displacement of particles is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Examples of transverse waves include waves on a string or electromagnetic waves.
02

Understanding Alternating Current (AC)

Alternating Current (AC) is an electric current that periodically changes its direction and amplitude. The voltage also varies sinusoidally with time. AC is widely used for power transmission due to its ability to be easily transformed between different voltage levels.
03

Comparing AC to Waves

When comparing AC to waves, it is important to note that AC is not a mechanical wave. It is an electrical signal that represents the flow of electric charge in a circuit. It is not directly comparable to the propagation of energy through a medium as in longitudinal or transverse waves. However, if we consider the electromagnetic wave representation of AC, then we can compare it to the properties of transverse and longitudinal waves. In an electromagnetic wave, the direction of the electric and magnetic fields is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
04

Determining the Type of Wave for AC

Since the alternating current's variation in amplitude and direction represents changes in the electric and magnetic fields, AC can be thought of as the variation in an electromagnetic wave's amplitude. As electromagnetic waves exhibit transverse wave properties with electric and magnetic fields perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation, AC, when represented as an electromagnetic wave variation, can be considered a transverse wave.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Make a sketch of a simple electric circuit.

Explain what \(\mathrm{AC}\) and \(\mathrm{DC}\) are. Why is AC used by electric utilities? Why is DC used in flashlights?

Two \(1.5\) -volt batteries are connected in series in an electric circuit. Use the concept of energy to explain why this combination is equivalent to a single 3 -volt battery. When connected in parallel, what are two \(1.5\) -volt batteries equivalent to?

Salt water contains an equal number of positive and negative ions. When salt water is flowing through a pipe, does it constitute an electric current?

If the electric utility company where you live suddenly changed the frequency of the \(\mathrm{AC}\) to \(20 \mathrm{~Hz}\), what problems might this cause?
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