A transverse wave is a type of wave where the oscillations or vibrations of the medium occur perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of wave propagation. In other words, the particles of the medium move in a direction perpendicular to the wave's direction of travel.
To visualize a transverse wave, imagine a rope or string that is held fixed at one end while the other end is moved up and down in a periodic manner. As the end of the rope is moved up, a crest or peak is formed, and as it is moved down, a trough is formed. These crests and troughs represent the high and low points of the wave, respectively.
When observing a transverse wave, you would see a series of crests and troughs propagating along the length of the medium, while the particles of the medium themselves move up and down perpendicular to the wave's direction. The motion of the particles is perpendicular to the direction in which the wave is moving.
Some common examples of transverse waves include electromagnetic waves (such as light waves) and waves on water surfaces, where the water particles move up and down while the wave propagates horizontally.
In summary, a transverse wave is characterized by oscillations of the medium that are perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation, resulting in the formation of crests and troughs that move through the medium.