Transverse Waves and its Examples

transverse waves

If the particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation, then it is a transverse wave. In plain words, the motion of the constituent particles of the medium or wave is perpendicular to the path of propagation of the wave. Transverse waves include the following examples:

  • Electromagnetic Waves: Examples of transverse electromagnetic waves include radio waves, X-rays, and light waves. In these waves the electric and magnetic fields oscillate perpendicular to the direction of the wave.
  • When a stone is thrown into still water, waves are created which spread outwards. Since the water molecules move up and down as the wave passes, these waves are transverse waves.
  • Guitar strings that vibrate: When a string is plucked, it oscillates transversely, rising and falling perpendicular to the length of the string. Transverse waves are the resulting sound waves.
  • S-Waves: During an earthquake, P-waves, or primary waves, and S-waves, or secondary waves, are both produced. Transverse waves called S-waves force ground particles to travel perpendicular to the wave’s path of propagation.
  • Rope Waves: Waves will move down the length of a rope if you hold one end and move your hand up and down. The direction of the waves and the motion of the rope are opposite each other.

manish janardhan iit mbm

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Manish love to write and he is a Civil Servant. Users can follow Manish on Instagram ankita mehra instagram

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