What is the difference between a transverse and longitudinal wave?

A transverse wave is a wave where the direction of vibration is perpendicular (90 degrees) to the direction of travel (an example would be a wave in the sea), and a longitudinal wave is a wave where the vibration and the direction of travel are in the same direction (an example would be a sound wave or a seismic P-wave).

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Answered by Jared C. Physics tutor

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