What is a progressive wave?

A progressive wave is a type of wave that moves energy from one point to another.

Progressive waves are characterized by their ability to transfer energy from one point to another without any net movement of matter. They can be classified as either transverse or longitudinal waves, depending on the direction of the oscillations relative to the direction of wave propagation. Transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation, while longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to the direction of wave propagation.

In a progressive wave, energy is transmitted through a medium by the vibration of particles. As the wave travels through the medium, particles oscillate back and forth around their equilibrium positions, transferring energy from one particle to the next. The speed at which the wave travels through the medium depends on the properties of the medium, such as its density and elasticity.

Examples of progressive waves include sound waves, water waves, and electromagnetic waves. Sound waves are longitudinal waves that travel through the air, while water waves are transverse waves that travel through water. Electromagnetic waves, such as light and radio waves, are transverse waves that can travel through a vacuum.

In summary, a progressive wave is a type of wave that transfers energy from one point to another without any net movement of matter. They can be transverse or longitudinal waves and are characterized by the vibration of particles in the medium through which they travel.