Difference between Longitudinal and Transverse Waves

Longitudinal waves

1. In longitudinal waves, the particles of the medium vibrate back and forth parallel to the direction of propagation of the wave.

2. Longitudinal waves travel in the form of compressions and rarefactions. One compression and one rarefaction constitute one wave.

3. Longitudinal waves are possible in media which possess the properties of elasticity of volume i.e., they are possible in solids, liquids and gases but in gases, this is the only wave motion possible.

4. Longitudinal waves can not be polarised.

5. Pressure of medium changes when longitudinal displacement passes through it, but there is no transverse displacement in the medium.

6. Longitudinal waves cannot be represented by sine curve directly.

7. Examples: Sound waves in air, gases and waves in springs are longitudinal waves.


                     Transverse waves

1. In transverse waves, the particles of the medium vibrate in a direction at right angles to the direction of propagation of the wave.

2. Transverse waves travel in the form of crests and troughs. One crest and one trough constitute one wave.

3. Transverse waves are possible in media which possess the properties of elasticity of shape or they have a free surface i.e., they are possible in solids and liquids.

4. Transverse waves can be polarised.

5. Transverse displacement travels with the
wave but there is no change in pressure of medium.

6. Transverse waves can be represented by sine curve directly.

7. Examples: Waves in ropes, ripples on the surface of liquids and electromagnetic waves are transverse waves.