Chapter 14, Problem 1FTD

What distinguishes a wave from an oscillation?

To determine

The properties that distinguish a wave from an oscillation.

Answer to Problem 1FTD

A wave is different from an oscillation in the fact that in the propagation of wave matter is not transported, only energy is.

Explanation of Solution

A travelling disturbance that transports energy but not matter constitutes a wave. An oscillation is one which is a repetitive motion of matter.

When a body oscillate it moves in a repetitive fashion. The body itself moves and produces motion in the form of a wave. The body continues to be in motion to constitute the oscillation. In waves on the other hand, the body does not move. The wave in its motion transports the energy and not the matter.

In a wave motion the energy get transported whole way. The matter in the path oscillates in the locality and do not move with the wave. Thus oscillation of matter takes place as the wave propagates which is only localized and the energy in the medium moves with the wave.

Conclusion:

Thus, a wave is different from an oscillation in the fact that in the propagation of wave matter is not transported, only energy is.