Defining Transverse & Longitudinal Waves
- In mechanical waves, particles oscillate about fixed points
- There are two types of wave: transverse and longitudinal
- The type of wave can be determined by the direction of the oscillations in relation to the direction the wave is travelling
Transverse Waves
- A transverse wave is defined as:
A wave in which the particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction of the wave travel (and energy transfer)
- Transverse waves show areas of crests (peaks) and troughs
Diagram of a transverse wave
- Examples of transverse waves are:
- Electromagnetic waves e.g. radio, visible light, UV
- Vibrations on a guitar string
- Transverse waves can be shown on a rope
- Transverse waves can be polarised
Longitudinal Waves
- A longitudinal wave is defined as:
A wave in which the particles oscillate parallel to the direction of the wave travel (and energy transfer)
- Longitudinal waves show areas of compressions and rarefactions
Diagram of a longitudinal wave
- Examples of longitudinal waves are:
- Sound waves
- Ultrasound waves
- Longitudinal waves can be shown on a slinky spring
- Longitudinal waves cannot be polarised
A wavelength on a longitudinal wave is the distance between two compressions or two rarefactions
Exam Tip
The definition of transverse and longitudinal waves are often asked as exam questions, make sure to remember these definitions by heart!
Examples of Transverse & Longitudinal Waves
- Energy is transferred through moving oscillations or vibrations. These can be seen in vibrations of ropes or springs
Waves can be shown through vibrations in ropes or springs
- The oscillations / vibrations can be perpendicular or parallel to the direction of wave travel:
- Waves which oscillate in a perpendicular direction are transverse waves
- Waves which oscillate in a parallel direction are longitudinal waves
