Question

Water waves are:
A) Longitudinal
B) Transverse
C) Both Longitudinal and transverse
D) Neither longitudinal nor transverse

Answer 1

Hint: As we can see in this question directly we need to find out the type of waves in which water waves behave. For that first of all we need to find out about the longitudinal and transverse waves. Then we should also know the nature of water waves. After that, we can compare water waves with both longitudinal and transverse waves and finally conclude with the correct option.

Complete answer:
Let us first know about the waves. Waves are nothing but the disturbance that travels through a medium, and transfers energy from one position to another without transferring the matter.
According to the given options, we need to know about the longitudinal and transverse waves. In a longitudinal wave the particle displacement is parallel to the direction of wave propagation. In a transverse wave the particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
Now, we need to know the properties of the water wave. On the surface of water waves are formed as transverse waves as we can see water ripples passing on the surface. As we go deep inside the water body, longitudinal waves are found as the particles are displaced parallel to the direction in which the wave travels.
As from the above discussion we can see that water possesses both kinds of wave i.e. longitudinal as well as transverse waves.

So, we can conclude that option (C), both longitudinal and transverse waves are correct options.
Note: We should also know that water waves are surface waves, which is the combination of longitudinal and transverse waves. Surface waves are deformations on the surface which propagates with wave speed, while the water molecules remain at the same positions. Only the energy is transferred to the shore of the water body. Generally, flow of wind is responsible for the formation of water waves.