Progressive wave
A wave that travels through space, transferring energy from one location to another. Particles oscillate about equilibrium positions, but the wave pattern travels in a single direction. Progressive waves are described by wavelength λ, frequency f, period T, and wave speed v = fλ.
Formula
v = fλ
Real World
When a stadium crowd does a Mexican wave, energy travels around the ground while each person only moves up and down — this mirrors how a progressive wave transfers energy without net particle movement.
Exam Focus
Distinguish progressive from stationary waves by stating that progressive waves transfer energy; stationary waves do not.
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