Transverse wave — Science definition
A wave in which the particles (or fields) vibrate perpendicular to the direction the wave travels, like a wave on a rope or light.
Where it is taught
- Wave Properties — Waves, Sound & Optics, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
In use
In a transverse wave, the particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction the wave travels — think of snapping a rope up and down while the pulse races horizontally away from your hand.
Wave Properties
Questions using transverse wave
Problem 1
In a transverse wave, the particles of the medium vibrate…
- parallel to the wave's motion
- perpendicular to the wave's motion
- in the exact direction the wave travels
- only when the wave stops
Answer and explanation
perpendicular to the wave's motion
Transverse means the vibration is perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction the wave travels.