Which type of wave is a sound wave categorized as?

A sound wave is categorized as a longitudinal wave because it is characterized by the oscillation of particles in the medium through which the wave travels in the same direction as the wave itself. In a longitudinal wave, the compression and rarefaction of the particles occur parallel to the direction of wave propagation, which is how sound travels through mediums like air, water, or solids.

This type of wave relies on the interaction between the particles of the medium to transfer energy. For example, when a tuning fork vibrates, it creates areas of compression (where particles are close together) and rarefaction (where particles are spread apart) in the surrounding air. This process allows sound to reach our ears.

In contrast, transverse waves, such as light waves or waves on a string, involve particle motion that is perpendicular to the direction of wave travel. Electromagnetic waves are a separate category that includes light and do not require a medium. Surface waves occur at the interface between different media, such as water waves on the surface of the ocean. Hence, sound waves are uniquely identified as longitudinal due to their particle displacement pattern.