What's the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves?

Firstly, all waves transfer energy without transferring matter (particles). 

Waves usually consist of particles vibrating in a particular direction, but not necessarily in the same direction as the way the energy is transferred. For example - a water wave. The water moves up and down, but the wave (or energy) might be moving to the right.

For transvere waves - the particles vibrate perperndicular to the direction of energy transfer (eg. water)

For longitudinal waves - the particles vibrate parallel to the direction of energy transfer (eg. air particles colliding causing a sound wave)

Answered by Jordan B. Physics tutor

9589 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

I never know where to start where I get a calculation question given many values, what should I do? (e.g: finding how much energy is needed for all the ice in a glass of water to melt after the ice is dropped into warm water)


Describe the energy changes as electricity is produced in a fossil fuel station.


The cyclist used the brakes to slow down and stop the bicycle. A constant braking force of 140 N stopped the bicycle in a distance of 24 m. Calculate the work done by the braking force to stop the bicycle. Give the unit. (3 Marks)


a) A car weighs 1500kg, if it is travelling at 7m/s, how much kinetic energy does it have?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences