Transverse waves and longitudinal waves are two types of mechanical waves that propagate energy through a medium. The main difference between the two types of waves lies in the direction in which the particles of the medium move relative to the direction of wave propagation.
Transverse waves:
- In transverse waves, the particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
- The motion of the particles in transverse waves is in a side-to-side or up-and-down direction.
- Examples of transverse waves include water waves, electromagnetic waves (such as light), and seismic S-waves (secondary waves).
Longitudinal waves:
- In longitudinal waves, the particles of the medium vibrate parallel to the direction of wave propagation.
- The motion of the particles in longitudinal waves is in a back-and-forth or compressional pattern.
- Examples of longitudinal waves include sound waves, seismic P-waves (primary waves), and waves in a slinky when it is compressed and stretched.
Overall, transverse waves and longitudinal waves differ in the direction of particle motion relative to wave propagation, which results in distinct wave behaviors and characteristics.
Transverse waves vs Longitudinal waves
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