What Are Transverse And Longitudinal Waves?
Waves can be classified into two types: transverse and longitudinal. Waves that travel in the direction perpendicular to the direction of vibration are called transverse waves. Examples of transverse waves include, rope waves, water waves and radio waves. To simulate the motion of a transverse wave, stretch a slinky out on a smooth floor. With one end fixed, move the other end repeatedly in a left and right direction. Humps (called the crests and troughs) will be seen moving in the direction of the fixed end. It should be noted that for transverse waves the motion of the particles (in this case the particles in the stretched slinky) are displaced at right angles to the direction of the wave motion. Waves that travel in the direction parallel to the direction of vibration are called longitudinal waves. Sound waves are a good example of longitudinal waves. To simulate the motion of a longitudinal wave, stretch a slinky on a smooth floor. With one end fixed, move the slinky in a to and fr
