Introduction to waves

In this lesson, we will learn:

• What are waves?
• Mechanical Waves VS. Electromagnetic Waves Vs. Surface Waves
• Transverse Waves VS. Longitudinal Waves

• Definition of wave
  Rhythmic disturbances that can travel through matter. (The matter does not transfer). Energy is transported from one location to another.

• Mechanical Waves VS. Electromagnetic Waves
  
  1. Mechanical Waves
     Mechanical waves need medium (substance) to transfer, Example; Sound waves, Water waves.
  2. Electromagnetic Waves
     Electromagnetic waves do not need medium to transfer, they can travel trough vacuum, Example; Radio waves, Microwaves, Infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and Gamma rays.


• Transverse Waves VS. Longitudinal Waves Vs. Surface Waves
• Transverse Waves
  Direction of motion of particles is PERPENDICULAR to the direction of motion of wave.

Note: All electromagnetic waves are transverse waves, for example: radio waves, x-rays

Note: Some mechanical waves are transverse waves, for example: water waves, vibrating spring


• Longitudinal Waves
  Direction of motion of particles is PARALLEL to the direction of motion of waves.

Note: Some mechanical waves are longitudinal waves, such as: sound waves


• Surface Waves
  They have the characteristics of both longitudinal and transverse waves.
  Example: ocean waves are longitudinal, at the surface, but particles move in both parallel and perpendicular to the direction of wave motion.