Final answer:
Particle velocity refers to the speed and direction of individual particles in a medium, while wave velocity refers to the speed at which the wave itself propagates. In longitudinal waves, particle velocity and wave velocity are parallel, while in transverse waves, particle velocity and wave velocity are perpendicular.
Step-by-step explanation:
Particle velocity and wave velocity are two concepts that are associated with wave motion.
Particle Velocity:
The particle velocity refers to the speed and direction of individual particles in a medium as they vibrate or oscillate. In a longitudinal wave, such as a sound wave, the particles move parallel to the direction of wave propagation. In a transverse wave, such as a water wave, the particles move perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
Wave Velocity:
The wave velocity refers to the speed at which the wave itself propagates through the medium. It is determined by the properties of the medium, such as its density and elasticity. The wave velocity is always perpendicular to the direction of particle velocity.
Example: In a water wave, when the particles move up and down (transverse motion), the wave itself moves horizontally from one point to another (wave propagation).