Transverse and longitudinal waves
Waves are vibrations that transfer energy from place to place. Waves can be longitudinal or transverse.
Transverse waves
In transverse waves, the The repeated and regular fluctuations, above and below the same position, eg the pressure of a sound wave or the voltage of an alternating current. are at right angles to the direction of travel and energy transfer.
Image caption, 1. A hand holds a length of rope taut
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Examples of transverse waves include:
- all types of electromagnetic waves
- water waves
- seismic A type of seismic wave produced during large-scale earth movements such as earthquakes. They are transverse waves. S waves travel through solids but not liquids.
Longitudinal waves
In longitudinal waves, the oscillations are along the same direction as the direction of travel and energy transfer. Longitudinal waves show areas of An area of increased pressure. In longitudinal waves, the particles in areas of compression are closer together than on average. and An area of reduced pressure. In longitudinal waves, the particles in areas of rarefaction are further apart than on average.. In the slideshow, the areas of compression are where the parts of the spring are close together, while the areas of rarefaction are where they are far apart.
Image caption, 1. An outstretched slinky spring
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Examples of longitudinal waves include:
- sound waves
- seismic A type of seismic wave produced during large-scale earth movements such as earthquakes. They are longitudinal waves - their vibrations happen in the same direction that the waves travel. P waves travel through liquids and solids.