In a longitudinal wave, what is the term for a region where the density of the medium's particles is greater than normal?

In a longitudinal wave, a region where the density of the medium's particles is greater than normal is referred to as a compression. This occurs when particles in the medium are pushed closer together due to the vibrations caused by the energy traveling through the wave. As these particles collide, they create a denser area, which is a fundamental characteristic of how longitudinal waves propagate.

Understanding this concept is crucial because compressions and rarefactions (where the particle density is lower) are the main features that define longitudinal waves, such as sound waves. In essence, the wave travels through the medium as these alternating compressions and rarefactions move along, transmitting energy without significantly displacing the medium's particles.

This knowledge lays the foundation for grasping various phenomena related to wave behavior, including sound propagation and wave interactions.