What is the difference between longitudinal and transverse waves? Give examples of each.

Transverse waves: particles vibrate PERPENDICULAR (at right angles) to the direction of wave travel. Light (electromagnetic), water surface waves, vibrations in a string. You can see crests and troughs. Can travel through solids and on surfaces. Cannot travel through gases (generally). Longitudinal waves: particles vibrate PARALLEL (in the same direction) to wave travel. Sound waves, seismic P-waves (primary). You see compressions (high density) and rarefactions (low density). Can travel through solids, liquids, and gases. Sound cannot travel through vacuum because there are no particles to vibrate. Quick test: if you can produce the wave with a slinky by shaking it side to side = transverse. If by pushing and pulling it along its length = longitudinal.