3.3.1.2
Transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of travel
Wave Types, Polarisation & Stationary Waves — AQA A-Level Physics
Key Definition
Transverse wave — A wave in which the particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction of the wave travel and energy transfer.
- Transverse waves show crests (peaks) and troughs.
- Examples: all electromagnetic waves (radio, visible light, UV, X-rays), vibrations on a guitar string, waves on a rope, seismic S-waves.
- Transverse waves can be polarised.
- Can be demonstrated by moving a rope up and down while one end is fixed.