Waves Based on Medium:

• Mechanical waves: These require a medium (like air, water, or strings) to propagate. Their energy is transferred through the vibration of particles in the medium. Examples include:

  • Transverse waves: Particles move perpendicular to the wave's direction (think water waves or guitar strings).

  • Longitudinal waves: Particles vibrate parallel to the wave's direction (think sound waves or slinky springs).

  • Surface waves: A combination of transverse and longitudinal motion, often seen at interfaces (like ripples on water).

  • Electromagnetic waves: These don't need a medium and can travel through vacuum. They consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields, and their energy is carried by photons. Examples include:

    • Radio waves: Used for communication, broadcasting, and radar.

    • Microwaves: Heat food, used in Wi-Fi technology.

    • Infrared radiation: Heat lamps, night vision.

    • Visible light: What we see, with different colors corresponding to different frequencies.

    • Ultraviolet radiation: Causes sunburn, used in sterilization.

    • X-rays: Used for medical imaging.

    • Gamma rays: Most energetic, emitted by radioactive materials.

Based on particle nature: