Question

A loaded spring produces_ _ _ _ _ _ waves.
(A) Transverse
(B) Longitudinal
(C) Both (A) and (B)
(D) None of the above

Answer 1

Recall the definition of waves and its two types named as longitudinal wave and transverse wave. The vibrations of loaded spring are in the same direction as the direction of propagation of the wave generated in the string.

Complete step by step answer:
Waves can be defined as a disturbance or variation that transfers energy progressively from point to point in a medium and that may take the form of an elastic deformation or of a variation of pressure, electric or magnetic intensity, electric potential, or temperature.
There are two types of mechanical wave motion: longitudinal wave motion and transverse wave motion of the wave.In longitudinal wave motion, the particles in the medium travels parallel to the direction of propagation of the wave. Transverse wave oscillates in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the propagation of the wave.In a loaded spring, you see the vibrations are up and down. The waves produced also move upward, getting reflected at the rigid support then move downward. Therefore, the direction of propagation of the wave and the direction of vibrations of the loaded spring is the same. Now, recall the definition of the longitudinal wave motion which states that the particle in the medium travels parallel to the direction of the propagation of the wave.Therefore, the loaded spring is an example of longitudinal waves.
So, the correct answer is option (B).

Note: The vibrations of the loaded spring are up and down that does not mean the motion of the particle can be shown by the sinusoidal wave. The direction of movement of the particle is the same as the direction of the propagation of the wave and not perpendicular to the propagation of the wave.