Types of Mechanical Waves
The Mechanical Wave further can be classified in two different types
- Transverse waves
- Longitudinal waves
Transverse Waves
Transverse Waves defined as vibrations where the medium’s particles oscillate at right angles to the wave’s motion. The pivotal point around which these particles oscillate is termed the mean position. The highest point in the wave is identified as the crest, while the lowest is the trough. Examples of transverse waves include waves on a string, oscillation of a spring, water waves, where the water moves up and down as the wave traverses the ocean. Light also exemplifies a Transverse Wave.
Longitudinal Wave
Longitudinal Waves are the waves in which the particles of the medium oscillate parallel to the direction of the wave’s motion. These Waves manifest as compressions and rarefactions, with compression occurring when particles draw closer and rarefaction when they move apart. Examples of Longitudinal Waves include sound waves, seismic P-type earthquake waves, and the oscillation of a spring. Water waves show a combination of both Longitudinal and Transverse motions.
Difference Between Transverse Waves And Longitudinal Waves
The difference between Transverse and Longitudinal wave is tabulated below:
Transverse Waves |
Longitudinal Waves |
---|---|
Transverse waves moves perpendicular to the wave directions. |
Longitudinal wave moves parallel to the wave directions. |
It forms crests and troughs. |
It travels by compressions and rarefactions. |
It can travel through all the three mediums |
It can propagate in solids, liquids and gases. |
Transverse waves acts in two and three dimensions. |
Longitudinal Waves acts only in one direction |
It can be polarized. |
It can not be polarized. |
Light Waves and Water wave are the example of these waves. |
Sound Wave and Seismic-P Wave are the example of this waves. |
Types of Waves
Wave is a disturbance in some substance that propagates from one place to another through the medium or without a medium. There are different types of waves such as Mechanical, Electromagnetic or Matter. Waves have the ability to travel through solids, liquids, and gases. Waves come in various forms, such as transverse, longitudinal, or neither. While Waves transport energy and momentum, they don’t carry any mass. In this article, we will understand the definition of Wave and various Types of Waves in detail along with their Properties and uses.
Table of Content
- What are Waves?
- Types of Waves
- Mechanical Waves
- Electromagnetic Waves
- Matter Wave
- Wave Speed Formula