What are transverse, longitudinal and electromagnetic waves?
In this post, we conduct practical investigations to explain and analyse the differences between transverse and longitudinal waves, and mechanical and electromagnetic waves, as a part of the Prelim Physics course under the module Waves and Thermodynamics and sub-part Wave Properties. A transverse wave is a wave whose oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of the wave or path of propagation while a longitudinal wave is a wave in which the displacement of the medium is in the same direction as, or the opposite direction to, the direction of propagation of the wave. An electromagnetic wave is created as a result of vibrations between an electric field and a magnetic field.
What are the differences between transverse and longitudinal waves?
In the following two videos, go over the properties of transverse and longitudinal waves with a demonstration of each in the second video.
Part 1: Properties of transverse and longitudinal waves
Part 2: Transverse and longitudinal wave demonstration
What are the differences between mechanical and electromagnetic waves?
The video below goes over the properties of mechanical and electromagnetic waves, contrasting and explaining the differences between the two.
