Question

select the best definition for a transverse wave:
○ particles move at acute angles to the direction of wave travel
○ particles move at right angles to the direction of wave travel
○ particles move at obtuse angles to the direction of wave travel
○ particles move in the same direction of wave travel

Explanation:

A transverse wave is defined as a wave where the particles of the medium move perpendicular (at right angles, i.e., 90 degrees) to the direction of the wave's propagation. The first option (acute angles) is incorrect as acute is less than 90, the third (obtuse) is more than 90, and the fourth is for longitudinal waves (same direction as wave travel). So the correct definition matches the second option.

Answer:

B. particles move at right angles to the direction of wave travel