What is meant by transfer of matter and energy in waves?

AI Thread Summary
Waves transfer energy without resulting in a net transfer of matter. The concept of 'net transfer of matter' refers to the idea that while matter may oscillate back and forth, the overall movement averages out to zero. This means that any displacement in one direction is countered by an equal displacement in the opposite direction. Consequently, despite the apparent movement, there is no net movement of matter in the wave. Understanding this principle is crucial for grasping the nature of wave behavior.
LXX
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All waves involve the transfer of energy without a net transfer of matter. What does 'net transfer of matter mean?':confused:
 
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Hi LXX! http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/5725/red5e5etimes5e5e45e5e25.gif

When movement goes as far in one direction as the other, it averages out to being zero distance moved, i.e., no net movement.

If matter is moved as far in one direction as the other, there is zero average distance moved.

So it's saying that while matter may be seen to move backwards & forwards (or up & down), that movement averages out to no movement. Overall, there is no net movement.
 
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NascentOxygen said:
Hi LXX! http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/5725/red5e5etimes5e5e45e5e25.gif

When movement goes as far in one direction as the other, it averages out to being zero distance moved, i.e., no net movement.

If matter is moved as far in one direction as the other, there is zero average distance moved.

So it's saying that while matter may be seen to move backwards & forwards (or up & down), that movement averages out to no movement. Overall, there is no net movement.


Thank you sooooo much!
 
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