Transverse wave

Definition

A transverse wave is a type of wave where the oscillations or vibrations are perpendicular to the direction of the wave's advance. Examples include waves on a string and electromagnetic waves.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The displacement of particles in a transverse wave is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
2. Electromagnetic waves, such as light, are transverse waves.
3. Transverse waves can travel through solids and liquids but not through gases.
4. The speed of a transverse wave on a string depends on the tension in the string and its linear mass density.
5. In a transverse wave, points that are in phase with each other have displacements that reach their maximum and minimum values at the same time.

Review Questions

• What is the key characteristic that distinguishes a transverse wave from other types of waves?
• Give an example of a common physical phenomenon that exhibits transverse waves.
• How does increasing tension in a string affect the speed of a transverse wave traveling through it?

Related terms

Longitudinal Wave: A type of wave where particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation, such as sound waves in air.

Wavelength: The distance between successive crests or troughs in a transverse wave.

Amplitude: \text{The maximum displacement from equilibrium position in any type of oscillatory motion.}