Question

Differences between transverse wave and longitudinal wave ?

Answer 1

Hi there !!!

Transverse Wave :-
⇒The particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of the propagation of wave
⇒Wave travels in the form of alternate crests and troughs
⇒One wave is constituted by 1 crest and 1 trough
⇒Can be polarised
Example : - Light Wave

Longitudinal Wave :-
⇒The particles of the medium vibrate parallel to the direction of the propagation of wave
⇒Wave travels in the form of alternate compressions and rarefactions
⇒One wave is constituted by 1 compression and 1 rarefaction
⇒Cannot be polarised
Example : -Sound Wave

Answer 2

Longitudinal wave:

•longitudinal waves are those in which the particles of the medium oscillates parallel to the propagation of the wave.

•longitudinal wave always needs a medium to propagate.These are mechanical waves. Wave propagating along the length of a spring is a longitudinal wave. Sound wave is a longitudinal wave.

Transverse waves:

•Transverse waves are those in which the particles of the medium oscillates perpendicular to the direction of the wave.

•Transverse wave that needs medium to propagate is a mechanical wave. Water waves (formation of ripples in a pond) are transverse waves. Electromagnetic waves (example: light) are also transverse waves (electric and magnetic field oscillates perpendicular to the propagation of the wave) but these waves don't need a medium to propagate.

Hope it helps..!!