Introduction

In mechanics we study the motion of particles, rigid bodies and fluids. We now begin with the study of wave motion.

What is a wave?

A wave is a disturbance that travels or propagates and transports energy and momentum without the transport of matter. The ripples on a pond, the sound we hear, visible light, radio and TV signals are a few examples of waves. Sound, light and radio waves provide us with an effective means of transmitting and receiving energy and information.

Mechanical waves such as water waves or sound waves require material medium for their propagation. These waves travel within or on the surface of material with elastic properties. There must be some mechanism that tends to restore the medium to its normal or equilibrium state.

Electromagnetic waves, such as light and TV signals, are non-mechanical and can propagate through vacuum.