Transverse Waves: Why They Can't Travel Through Liquids

[rahuldg11]

Why transverse waves cannot travel through liquids ?

 

[Studiot]

A fluid (liquid or gas) is a substance that cannot support shear. So only pressure waves, which are longitudinal can traverse through a fluid.

However transverse surface waves can exist as you can witness at any shoreline.

 

[rahuldg11]

What is the relation between transverse waves and shear?

 

[Studiot]

This geophysical explanation is as good as any

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seismic_wave

 

[PJC01]

Transverse waves are a type of wave where the particles of the medium move perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. This type of wave is commonly observed in solids and gases, but not in liquids. The reason for this is due to the properties of liquids.

Liquids have a relatively weak intermolecular force compared to solids and gases. This means that the particles in a liquid are not tightly packed and are able to move around freely. As a result, when a transverse wave passes through a liquid, the particles are able to move out of their equilibrium position and flow in the direction of the wave. This disrupts the wave's propagation and prevents it from maintaining its transverse nature.

In contrast, solids have strong intermolecular forces that hold the particles in a fixed position, allowing transverse waves to propagate without distortion. Gases, on the other hand, have weak intermolecular forces but the particles are widely spaced, allowing them to move freely and not interfere with the transverse wave's propagation.

In summary, the weak intermolecular forces and the ability of particles to move freely in liquids prevent the maintenance of a transverse wave's nature, making it impossible for transverse waves to travel through liquids.