Transverse waves
In A wave that moves in a direction at right angles to the way in which the particles are vibrating., the vibrations are at right angles to the direction of wave travel.
Examples of transverse waves include:
- ripples on the surface of water
- vibrations in a guitar string
- a Mexican wave in a sports stadium
- electromagnetic waves - eg light waves, microwaves, radio waves
- seismic S-waves
One way to remember the movement of particles in transverse waves is to use the 'S' sound: transverse waves such as seismic S-waves may be thought of as shake or shear waves as the particles move from side-to-side - crossing the direction of wave travel.
Demonstrating transverse waves
Transverse waves are often demonstrated by moving a rope rapidly up and down.
Image caption, A taut length of rope
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In the diagram the rope moves up and down, producing peaks and troughs. Energy is transferred from left to right. However, none of the particles are transported along a transverse wave. The particles move up and down as the wave is transmitted through the A material through which a wave can be transmitted (propagate)..