Question

Is ultrasound a transverse wave?

Answer 1

Explanation:

1. In a longitudinal wave, the medium or channel moves parallel to the wave in the same direction. Here, the particles are moving from left to right, which causes other particles to vibrate.
2. Transverse wave motion occurs when all points on a wave oscillate along pathways that are perpendicular to the wave's advance direction. Water surface ripples, seismic (secondary) waves, and electromagnetic waves.

Therefore,

1. The medium or channel flows perpendicular to the wave's direction in a transverse wave.
2. It's interesting to note that ultrasonic waves can be either longitudinal or transverse.
3. When they move through fluids, they behave as longitudinal waves.
4. They can be either both longitudinal and transverse waves as they pass through solids.

Hence, ultrasound can be a transverse wave.