Transverse wave
Definition
A transverse wave is a type of wave in which particles vibrate perpendicular to the direction in which the wave travels.
Analogy
Picture yourself holding one end of a jump rope while your friend holds onto the other end. When you shake your end up and down, you create waves that move along the length of the rope. The motion of your hand represents how particles move perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer in transverse waves.
Related terms
Longitudinal wave: A longitudinal wave is a type of wave where particles vibrate parallel to (or along) the direction in which energy transfers.
Crest: The crest is the highest point on a transverse waveform.
Trough: The trough is lowest point on a transverse waveform.
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