A longitudinal wave travels on a slinky or any long spring. The wave is represented by the equation x(x, t) = 2.1 cm cos(2000 rad/s t − 40 m⁻¹ x). What is the direction of propagation of the wave? A) the − x direction B) the + x direction C) the − y direction D) the + y direction

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The direction of propagation of a wave is given by the sign of the coefficient multiplying the x variable in the argument of the sine or cosine function. In this case, the coefficient is -40 mS-1, which is negative, indicating that the wave is propagating in the negative x direction. Therefore, the correct answer is choice B.

A Longitudinal Wave Travels on a Slinky or Any Long