Question

In a transverse wave, in which direction does the medium vibrate when compared to the direction that the wave is moving?

a. In the same direction as the wave
b. Perpendicular to the direction of the wave
c. In the opposite direction of the wave
d. In a circular motion

Answer 1

In a transverse wave, the medium vibrates perpendicular to the direction of the wave.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a transverse wave, the medium vibrates perpendicular to the direction that the wave is moving. This means that the particles of the medium move up and down or side to side, while the wave itself travels in a different direction.

For example, in a water wave, the water particles move up and down as the wave moves forward. Similarly, in a light wave, the electric and magnetic fields vibrate perpendicular to the direction of the wave.

It is important to note that in a transverse wave, the wave itself does not physically move the particles of the medium from one place to another. Instead, it transfers energy from one particle to the next, causing the particles to oscillate.