What must be present for the propagation of a mechanical wave?

AI Thread Summary
For the propagation of a mechanical wave, a medium is essential, as mechanical waves cannot travel through a vacuum. Examples of mechanical waves include sound waves, water waves, and seismic waves from earthquakes. These waves rely on vibrations within the medium to transmit energy. In contrast, non-mechanical waves, such as electromagnetic waves, do not require a medium for propagation. Understanding the distinction between mechanical and non-mechanical waves is crucial in the study of wave phenomena.
princess08
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What must be present for the propagation of a mechanical wave?
 
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princess08 said:
What must be present for the propagation of a mechanical wave?
Welcome to PF,

What do you think must be present?
 
What must be present for the propagation of a mechanical wave?
 
I have no idea... Movement?
 
princess08 said:
I have no idea... Movement?
Hmm, not really what I had in mind. Can you give some examples of a mechanical wave?

P.S. You could have your answer in under five seconds from Google.
 
Movement?
Hootenanny said:
Welcome to PF,

What do you think must be present?
 
sound, earthquake, water waves... it is vibration?
Hootenanny said:
Hmm, not really what I had in mind. Can you give some examples of a mechanical wave?

P.S. You could have your answer in under five seconds from Google.
 
princess08 said:
sound, earthquake, water waves... it is vibration?
Correct! Can you now give me examples of non-mechanical waves?
 
I also read about a medium.
princess08 said:
sound, earthquake, water waves... is it vibration?
 
  • #10
princess08 said:
I also read about a medium.
That's the answer :smile: Mechanical waves require a medium through which to be transmitted, whereas non-mechanical waves require no medium.
 

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