What is another name for a compression wave?

A compression wave is commonly referred to as a longitudinal wave because of the way particles in the medium oscillate in relation to the direction of wave propagation. In longitudinal waves, particles move back and forth along the same direction as the wave travels, creating regions of compression and rarefaction. This characteristic movement distinguishes longitudinal waves from other types of waves.

Transverse waves, on the other hand, involve particle motion that is perpendicular to the direction of wave travel, as seen in waves on a string or electromagnetic waves. Surface waves travel along interfaces, like the boundary between water and air, exhibiting both longitudinal and transverse characteristics. Shear waves, also known as secondary waves, are a type of wave that moves through solids but not through fluids, also involving perpendicular motion but occurring as a result of shear stress.

Understanding the unique properties of longitudinal waves, including their ability to travel through both solids and fluids, enhances comprehension of how sound and other types of mechanical waves propagate through different media.