AFOQT Practice Test

Which type of wave travels parallel to the direction of wave propagation?

1. Transverse wave

2. Longitudinal wave

3. Surface wave

4. Electromagnetic wave

The correct answer is: Longitudinal wave

The correct choice is a longitudinal wave. In a longitudinal wave, the particles of the medium move back and forth in the same direction as the wave travels. This creates regions of compression and rarefaction along the path of the wave, with the motion of the medium being parallel to the direction of wave propagation. In contrast, a transverse wave involves motion that is perpendicular to the direction of wave travel. This type of wave moves in a manner where the displacement of the medium is at right angles to the wave direction. Surface waves, which typically occur at the interface between two different media (like water and air), exhibit both transverse and longitudinal characteristics. Electromagnetic waves, while they don't require a medium and can travel through a vacuum, also propagate in a transverse manner where the electric and magnetic fields oscillate perpendicular to the motion of the wave.