Why do longitudinal waves always need a medium to propagate while the transverse waves do not?

Open in App

Solution

The way longitudinal waves propagate they require a medium to do so. They basically are pressure waves which manifest themselves as density variations in the form of compressions (high density) and rarefactions (low density). Transverse waves on the other hand do not require any medium for propagation.

Suggest Corrections

Similar questions

The transverse wave always requires material medium to propagate.

State why transverse Waves cannot propagate through gaseous medium.

Join BYJU'S Learning Program