Waves: Basic Definition, Transverse vs. Longitudinal, Mechanical vs. Electromagnetic - IB Physics

Waves are disturbances that transfer energy from one place to another without the transfer of matter. There are two main types of waves:

• Transverse waves: In these waves, the particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. An example is light waves, where the electric and magnetic fields oscillate at right angles to the direction of the wave.

• Longitudinal waves: Here, the particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation. Sound waves are a primary example, as they consist of compressions and rarefactions in the medium through which they travel.

Additionally, waves can be categorized as:

• Mechanical waves: These require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel through, such as sound waves or water waves.

• Electromagnetic waves: These do not require a medium and can travel through a vacuum, including visible light, radio waves, and X-rays.