Physics: Why Waves in Fluids are Longitudinal

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Waves in fluids are exclusively longitudinal because fluids cannot support shear stress, which is necessary for transverse waves. In solids, both longitudinal and transverse waves can propagate due to the ability to maintain shape under stress. Surface waves on liquids can exhibit both types of motion, but within the fluid's volume, only longitudinal waves can occur. This distinction arises from the molecular structure and behavior of fluids compared to solids. Understanding these differences is crucial for grasping wave propagation in various mediums.
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Homework Statement


Both longitudinal and transverse waves can propagate through a solid. A wave on the surface of a liquid can involve both longitudinal and transverse motion of elements of the medium. On the other hand, a wave propagating through the volume of a fluid must be purely longitudinal, not transverse. Why?


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The Attempt at a Solution

 
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What do you think might be different between the two cases, to prompt the question in the first place?
 

Thread 'Magnitude of buoyant force in fluids of different densities'

The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?
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