transverse waves
What transverse waves means in Physics GCSE, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of transverse waves
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain transverse waves in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Waves modelled by ripples on a water surface, where the surface moves up and down while the ripple travels along, so the oscillation is perpendicular to the direction of travel.
Waves in which the vibration is at right angles (perpendicular) to the direction of travel.
Waves in which the oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer.
Waves whose oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer.
Topics that use transverse waves
- Transverse and longitudinal waves (AQA GCSE)
- Types of electromagnetic waves (AQA GCSE)
- Wave behaviour (OCR GCSE)
Related terms
- amplitude
- compressions and rarefactions
- longitudinal waves
- wavelength
- absorption
- ageing
- audible range
- Calculations with powers of ten
Using transverse waves in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge