Transverse and Longitudinal Waves A transverse wave is a wave that vibrates perpendicular to the direction of propagation. The vibrations cause points on a...
Transverse and Longitudinal Waves
A transverse wave is a wave that vibrates perpendicular to the direction of propagation. The vibrations cause points on a string or membrane to move back and forth in a plane perpendicular to the direction of propagation. The transverse waves are characterized by the fact that the crest (highest point) and the trough (lowest point) of the wave occur at right angles to the direction of propagation.
On the other hand, a longitudinal wave is a wave that vibrates parallel to the direction of propagation. The vibrations cause points on a string or membrane to move up and down along the direction of propagation. Longitudinal waves are characterized by the fact that the crest (highest point) and the trough (lowest point) of the wave occur at right angles to each other and to the direction of propagation.
Transverse waves have a higher frequency than longitudinal waves. Longitudinal waves have a lower frequency than transverse waves. Transverse waves are also more efficient at transferring energy, while longitudinal waves are more efficient at transferring energy over long distances