Transverse waves are a type of mechanical wave that travels through a medium by vibrating perpendicular to the direction of the wave. Photons, on the other hand, are particles of light that have energy, momentum, and wavelength. They do not require a medium to travel and can travel through a vacuum.
Light travels through space as a series of electromagnetic waves. These waves have an electric field and a magnetic field that oscillate perpendicular to each other and to the direction of the wave. This allows light to travel through the vacuum of space without the need for a medium.
The color of light is determined by its wavelength. The shorter the wavelength, the higher the energy and the bluer the light appears. The longer the wavelength, the lower the energy and the redder the light appears. All colors of light are present in white light, and the color we see depends on the combination and intensity of the different wavelengths.
Yes, all light waves travel at the same speed in a vacuum, which is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second. This is known as the speed of light and is a fundamental constant in physics.
When a photon encounters matter, it can either be absorbed, reflected, or transmitted. The interaction depends on the properties of the material and the wavelength of the photon. For example, opaque materials like wood and metal will absorb most of the photons, while transparent materials like glass will allow them to pass through. This interaction is what allows us to see objects and colors around us.