Transverse and Longitudinal Sound Waves

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SUMMARY

Sound waves propagate differently across various states of matter: they are solely longitudinal in gases, liquids, and plasmas, while both longitudinal and transverse waves can exist in solids. This distinction arises because solids can support shear stresses due to their structural bonds, enabling transverse wave propagation. Both crystalline and amorphous solids can support transverse sound waves, as the ability to transmit shear stress is not limited to crystalline structures. The absence of shear stress in fluids prevents the formation of transverse modes, as there is no restoring force when displaced.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of sound wave propagation in different states of matter
  • Knowledge of shear stress and its role in solid mechanics
  • Familiarity with crystalline and amorphous material properties
  • Basic principles of wave mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of longitudinal and transverse waves in solid materials
  • Explore the mechanics of shear stress in various types of solids
  • Study the differences between crystalline and amorphous structures in material science
  • Learn about the implications of sound wave propagation in engineering applications
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, material science, and engineering, particularly those interested in acoustics and wave mechanics.

narra
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What causes sound waves to be solely longitudinal in gas, liquid, and plasmas, but enables longitudinal and transverse in solids? Also, does solids only mean crystalline structures or are amorphous materials also able to support transverse sound waves?
 
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Hi,

Sound waves travels in all except perfect vacuum.
In crystals we have 3 waves (two transverse and one longitudinal waves)
 
I was of the understanding that only Longitudinal sound (Pressure) waves could propagate in gas, liquid, and plasma. Whereas in solids, both longitudinal and transverse sound waves were possible, and hence my first question. Am I mistaken?
 
Fluids don't support shear stresses. All solids do, so it shouldn't matter if they are amorphous or crystalline.
 
So it is the solids lattice (structural bonds) which promote shear stress, thus allowing lateral density modulation?
 
If you displace a section of a liquid in the transverse direction there is no change in the energy of the liquid, since no chemical bonds are being stretched. Thus there is no restoring force, and no transverse mode.
 

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