Question

Why is water a transverse wave?

Answer 1

1. Waves are classified on basis of the motion of particles constituting the wave. The two types are transverse and longitudinal.
2. Longitudinal: It is a wave in which particles of the medium move parallel to the direction that the wave moves in.
3. Transverse: In this type of wave particles move in the perpendicular direction to that of the wave, up and down motions.
4. If we notice the water flowing, waves of water move up and down, which indicates that it is a transverse wave.

1. Crest - Points on a transverse wave with maximum upward displacement are called crests.
2. Trough - Points on a transverse wave with maximum downward displacement are called troughs.

Hence, water is a transverse wave.