Question

What happens when a transverse wave is reflected?

Answer 1

1. In transverse waves, the displacement of the particle is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave.
2. When a transverse wave meets a fixed end, the wave is reflected but inverted.
3. The phase change occurs $\mathrm{\pi }$ radians or ${180}^0$.
4. After reflection, the crest will return as a trough and the trough is reflected as a crest.
5. When the wave reflects, the phases of the transverse waves representing the electric and magnetic fields change by ${180}^0$.