What are transverse waves?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to define transverse waves. This is a physics question related to wave mechanics.
Answer
A transverse wave's oscillations are perpendicular to its direction of movement.
A transverse wave is a wave where the oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of the wave's movement. Examples include light waves and water surface ripples.
Answer for screen readers
A transverse wave is a wave where the oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of the wave's movement. Examples include light waves and water surface ripples.
More Information
Transverse waves are contrasted with longitudinal waves, where the oscillations are parallel to the direction of wave movement.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing transverse and longitudinal waves. Transverse waves have perpendicular oscillations, while longitudinal waves have parallel oscillations.
Sources
- Transverse wave - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Transverse wave | Definition, Characteristics, Examples ... - Britannica - britannica.com
- Transverse Waves - UW–Madison Physics Department - physics.wisc.edu
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