Surface wave

In physics, a surface wave is a wave that is guided along the interface between two different media for a mechanical wave, or by a refractive index gradient for an electromagnetic wave. The surface wave is also known as the Norton surface wave, the Zenneck wave or the gliding wave.

Examples

An example is the waves at the surface of water and air, ocean surface waves, or ripples in the sand on the interface of water or wind. Longitudinal and transverse motions of the surface particles combine to undergo a circular motion. As the depth into the water increases, the radius of the circles decreases. See: Animation of surface water wave. Another example is internal waves, waves that are transmitted along the interface of two water masses of different densities. In seismology, several types of surface waves are encountered. See seismic wave.

Related Topics:
Wave - Water - Air - Ocean surface wave - Sand - Wind - Longitudinal - Transverse - Internal wave - Seismology - Seismic wave

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