Transverse vs Longitudinal Waves

Similarities: Both waves are mechanical

Differences: 

Transverse Waves – the amplitude and the direction the wave is traveling are perpendicular

Longitudinal Waves – has a disturbance in the same direction that the wave travels (parallel)

Transverse Wave

Longitudinal Waves

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  • Amplitude is vertical
  • Wave is traveling horizontally
  • Wave pulse is from the slinky being bunched together
  • Same direction as the direction is traveling