Longitudinal Wave Animation
Run the Longitudinal Wave Animation Fullscreen
About This MicroSim
This interactive simulation demonstrates longitudinal waves, where particles oscillate parallel to the direction of wave propagation. Sound waves in air are the most common example of longitudinal waves. When you click "Start Continuous," a wave travels from left to right, causing particles to bunch together (compressions) and spread apart (rarefactions).
Key Concepts Demonstrated
- Parallel Motion: Particles move in the same direction as the wave travels
- Compressions and Rarefactions: Regions of high and low particle density
- Density Graph: Shows how particle concentration varies as a sine wave
Visual Indicators
- Blue regions: Compressions (high density)
- Red regions: Rarefactions (low density)
- Blue particles: At rest
- Green particles: Moving left (against wave direction)
- Pink particles: Moving right (with wave direction)
Controls
| Control | Range | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Amplitude | 1-10 pixels | Maximum displacement from equilibrium |
| Speed | 1-8 | Wave propagation speed |
| Wavelength | 80-200 pixels | Distance between compressions |
| Start Continuous | Button | Begin continuous wave |
| Stop | Button | Pause the wave |
| Reset | Button | Return to initial state |
| Show density graph | Checkbox | Display density variation |
Learning Objectives
After using this simulation, students should be able to:
- Describe how particles move in a longitudinal wave
- Identify compressions and rarefactions
- Explain that particle motion is parallel to wave propagation
- Compare longitudinal waves to transverse waves
Lesson Plan
Comparison Activity (15 minutes)
Use this simulation alongside the Transverse Wave Animation to compare: - Direction of particle motion relative to wave direction - How energy is transferred in each type - Real-world examples of each type