Introduction to

physical waves
 What are waves?

▧ Vibrations caused by a disturbance of some

kind
▧ Transfer energy (but NOT matter)
 Classification #1

Electromagnetic
Can travel through matter
or empty space where
matter is not present
Mechanical
Require a medium (a
substance they can travel
through). The particles of
the medium need to
vibrate in order for energy
to be transferred.
 Transverse waves

▧ Vibrations are perpendicular to the direction

of the wave
 Longitudinal waves

▧ Vibrations are parallel to the direction of the

wave
Travelling waves

The wave is not

confined to a given
space. Energy travels
from one particle to
another, theoretically
endlessly.
Standing waves

Confined to a given
space in a medium.
Energy is transferred in
one direction, then in
the opposite. Some
particles oscillate, while
some don’t move at all.
Wavelength (and other stuff)