GlossariesIGCSE GlossariesIGCSE Physics GlossaryLongitudinal Wave

Longitudinal Wave - IGCSE Physics Definition

Reviewed by: Leander Oates

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What is a longitudinal wave?

In IGCSE Physics, a longitudinal wave is a type of wave where the oscillations of particles in the medium occur parallel to the direction of energy transfer. Longitudinal waves are pressure waves and therefore require a medium to travel through.

Longitudinal waves have areas of high density called compressions and area of low density called rarefactions.

Diagram of a longitudinal wave showing direction of vibration and energy transfer, with labels for rarefactions and compressions.
In a longitudinal wave, the direction of the oscillation is parallel to the direction of energy transfer

Sound waves in air are a common example of longitudinal waves.

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Leander Oates

Reviewer: Leander Oates

Expertise: Senior Physics Content Creator

Leander graduated with First-class honours in Science and Education from Sheffield Hallam University. She won the prestigious Lord Robert Winston Solomon Lipson Prize in recognition of her dedication to science and teaching excellence. After teaching and tutoring both science and maths students, Leander now brings this passion for helping young people reach their potential to her work at SME.

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