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Chapter 7: Problem 31

If \(A C\) in a circuit can be thought of as a wave, which kind is it, longitudinal or transverse?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: The alternating current (AC) in a circuit can be thought of as a longitudinal wave because the electrons move back and forth along the wire, similar to the particle motion in a longitudinal wave where the particles move along the direction of wave propagation.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Longitudinal and Transverse Waves

Longitudinal waves are waves in which the particles of the medium vibrate along the direction of the wave propagation. Sound waves are a common example of longitudinal waves. On the other hand, transverse waves are waves where the particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of the wave propagation. Light waves and waves on a string are examples of transverse waves.
02

Nature of Alternating Current

Alternating current refers to the flow of electric charge that periodically changes direction. The charge carriers (usually electrons) move back and forth in a conducting material, such as a wire.
03

Relate AC to Longitudinal or Transverse Waves

In an AC circuit, the electrons move back and forth along the wire, which means the flow of charge is in the same direction as the wire. This is more analogous to the particle motion in a longitudinal wave, where the particles move along the direction of wave propagation. Therefore, AC in a circuit can be thought of as a longitudinal wave rather than a transverse wave.

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