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: