What are transverse and longitudinal waves?

Last updated on June 13th, 2020 at 08:37 pm

Transverse waves:  

In transverse wave motion, the particles of the medium vibrate at right angles to the direction of propagation of wave. Example: Light waves are transverse waves.

           

Longitudinal wave motion: 

In longitudinal wave motion, particles of the medium vibrate along the direction of propagation of the wave. Example: Sound waves are longitudinal waves.