Mechanical vs. Electromagnetic Waves

Mechanical Waves Waves that require a material medium Examples include water, sound, and waves along a spring or rope These materials carry the energy of the wave

Electromagnetic Waves Waves that DO NOT require a medium for motion Examples include light waves, radio waves, and X-rays All electromagnetic waves travel through space at the speed of light Since these waves can’t be observed, we study mechanical waves

Electromagnetic Waves

Waves Mechanical Waves Transverse Waves Longitudinal Waves Surface Waves Electromagnetic Waves

Transverse Waves Particles of medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of the motion of the wave Examples include guitar strings, waves in piano strings

Longitudinal Wave Particles of medium to move parallel to the direction of the wave Examples include sound waves, waves through fluids, liquids, gases or plasma

Surface Waves Mixture of transverse and longitudinal waves Example: At the surface of the water, particles move parallel and perpendicular to the direction of the wave.

Earthworm Examination Grab an earthworm from the vermicompost. Study the movement and decide whether an earthworm moves by longitudinal, transverse, or surface waves...

Types of Waves Using materials around the classroom, set up a demonstration showing a: – Transverse Wave – Longitudinal Wave – Surface Wave