Waves transmit information from one point to another in the form of signals. For so many things, we are dependent on waves—for example, wireless communication. Different factors cause waves—for example, waves caused by wind and waves cause by water move in a circular motion. That is why it is essential to know different types of waves. So let’s explore more about them.
Before moving ahead, check out different types of forces:
Types of Waves
There are different types of waves around us which we explore daily. But we don’t have much knowledge about them. That is why today we’ll tell you about these waves to understand the physical world better. There are three main types of waves: mechanical, electromagnetic, and matter waves.
Mechanical Waves
A mechanical wave is an oscillation of matter owing to the repeated periodic movement. It is responsible for the transfer of energy and momentum through a medium. But the mass transfer is not possible to take place. The propagation can happen due to the inertia and elastic properties of the medium—for example, the vibration of a string, tsunami waves, and much more.
There are two types of mechanical waves that you must know.
Longitudinal Waves
Here the movement of the particle is parallel to the motion of the energy—for example, sound waves, pressure waves. The vibration od the particle is in the same direction of wave propagation. Thus a longitudinal wave continues in the form of refraction and compresses in the form of compression. That is why these waves are also known as compression waves.
Transverse Waves
When the movement of the particle is perpendicular to the motion of the energy, then it forms transverse waves—for example, polarized waves and electromagnetic waves. The motion takes place and continues in the cyclical pattern. Here the formation of trough and crest takes place, and also there is a possibility of polarization.
Surface Waves
Waves that travel in a circular motion is known as surface waves. These waves occur in oceans, ripples in a cup of water, sea diving creature, and so on.
Electromagnetic Waves
Waves created by the fusion of electric and magnetic field are electromagnetic waves. The things you see are visible because of electromagnetic waves. When there are periodic disturbances, electromagnetic waves can be seen. They don’t need any medium for the propagation. Some common examples include x-rays, microwaves, and much more.
Matter Waves
These are also known as De Broglie waves. They depict everything that maks up atoms, our body and much more. These waves are smaller and produced in electrons and particles.
So these were some different types of waves that we generally study in physics. For more physics homework help, contact our experts.