WAVES ON THE SURFACE OF THE WATER.

In physics we deal with the waves of different nature: mechanical, electromagnetic, etc. In spite of different physical nature of these waves they have many common features. Waves, where the parameter of interest (displacement, mechanical stress, etc.) oscillates along the axis of the wave propagation, are called longitudinal waves. If oscillation occurs perpendicularly to the direction of the wave propagation, then such a wave is called transversal wave.

The waves on the surface of the water are neither longitudinal nor transversal. We can see in the animation the small red ball which simulates the molecule of the water surface moving in a circular path. Thus, the wave on the surface of the water is a superposition of longitudinal and transversal motions.