Electromagnetic vs Mechanical Waves

Waves

Mechanical Waves

A mechanical wave is when there is a disturbance in matter. A mechanical wave always has to have a medium in order to travel. There are two types of mechanical waves: transverse and longitudinal.

Electromagnetic Waves

Electromagnetic waves are caused by a change in an electric field. They have both an electric field and a magnetic wave. They can also transmit energy by traveling through a vacuum. They do not have to have a medium in order to travel.

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Multiple Choice

What wave requires a medium in order to travel?

• Magnetic

• Electromagnetic

• Longitudinal

• Mechanical

Transverse Waves

A transverse wave is when

particles move parallel through

a wave.

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Longitudinal Waves

A longitudinal wave is

when particles move

perpendicular through

the wave.

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Open Ended

What are some things that you think can be a mechanical wave?

Mechanical Waves(EX)

Example:

When a water droplet hits the water it causes ripples. These are showing mechanical waves because they are caused by a disturbance in matter.

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​REVIEW

Multiple Choice

What is an example of a mechanical wave?

• Water droplet hitting the water causing ripples

• pencils

• water droplets

• Wind

Multiple Choice

What wave always need a medium in order to travel?

• Transverse

• Mechanical

• Longitudinal

• Gamma