Gelombang • Part 2: Besaran-Besaran Pada Gelombang Transversal dan Longitudinal

Introduction

This tutorial explores the key concepts of waves, specifically focusing on the characteristics of transverse and longitudinal waves. We will cover essential parameters such as amplitude, frequency, period, wavelength, and wave speed, along with specific terminology associated with each wave type. By the end of this guide, you'll have a solid understanding of how to calculate these parameters and differentiate between the terms used in both wave types.

Step 1: Understanding Transverse Waves

Transverse waves are waves where the displacement of the medium is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Key terms include:

• Crest: The highest point of the wave.
• Trough: The lowest point of the wave.
• Amplitude: The distance from the rest position to the crest or trough. It measures the wave's energy.
• Wavelength: The distance between two consecutive crests or troughs.

Practical Tips

• Visualize transverse waves by using a rope; when shaken, the peaks and valleys represent crests and troughs.
• Measure the amplitude and wavelength using a ruler for practical understanding.

Step 2: Understanding Longitudinal Waves

Longitudinal waves are waves where the displacement of the medium is parallel to the direction of wave propagation. Key terms include:

• Compression: Areas where particles are close together.
• Rarefaction: Areas where particles are spread apart.
• Wave speed: The speed at which the wave travels through the medium.

Practical Tips

• Use a slinky toy to demonstrate longitudinal waves. Push and pull one end to create compressions and rarefactions.
• Observe how the wave travels through the medium and measure the distance between compressions.

Step 3: Exploring Wave Parameters

Understanding the parameters of waves is crucial for calculations. Here’s how to identify and calculate them:

1. Amplitude: Measure the maximum displacement from the rest position.
2. Frequency (f): The number of cycles per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
   • Formula: f = 1/T (where T is the period).
3. Period (T): The time taken for one complete cycle.
   • Formula: T = 1/f.
4. Wavelength (λ): Measure the distance between two consecutive crests or troughs.
5. Wave Speed (v): The speed at which the wave travels through the medium.
   • Formula: v = f × λ.

Common Pitfalls

• Confusing frequency with period; remember they are inversely related.
• Not measuring the amplitude correctly, as it’s crucial for energy calculations.

Step 4: Solving Example Problems

Detailed examples help solidify understanding.

Example for Transverse Waves

1. Given a wave with an amplitude of 3 cm and a frequency of 2 Hz, calculate the period and wave speed.
   • Period: T = 1/f = 1/2 = 0.5 seconds.
   • If the wavelength is 6 m, then:
   • Wave speed: v = f × λ = 2 Hz × 6 m = 12 m/s.

Example for Longitudinal Waves

1. If a longitudinal wave has a compression every 4 meters and a frequency of 1 Hz, calculate the speed.
   • Wave speed: v = f × λ = 1 Hz × 4 m = 4 m/s.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we've covered the fundamental concepts of transverse and longitudinal waves, including their definitions and key parameters. Understanding how to calculate wave characteristics is essential in various fields such as physics and engineering. For further learning, consider exploring additional resources or practice problems to enhance your comprehension of wave mechanics.