Transverse Waves
- Definition: Waves where the particles of the medium oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
- Formation: Created by an oscillation that is perpendicular to the energy flow.
- Key Aspects:
- Crest: The point of maximum positive displacement.
- Trough: The point of maximum negative displacement.
- Amplitude: The maximum displacement from the equilibrium position.
- Examples: Light waves, water waves, waves on a string.
Longitudinal Waves
- Definition: Waves where the particles of the medium oscillate parallel to the direction of wave propagation.
- Formation: Created by an oscillation that is parallel to the energy flow, causing compressions and rarefactions.
- Key Aspects:
- Compression: A region of high density and pressure where particles are crowded together.
- Rarefaction: A region of low density and pressure where particles are spread apart.
- Examples: Sound waves, seismic P-waves.