A wave passes along the surface of the water in a ripple tank. Describe the motion of a molecule on the surface as the water passes.

Explanation:

Water waves are generally a transverse wave which do not cause permanent displacement of molecules of the medium. Transverse waves are waves in which the direction of propagation of the wave is perpendicular to the direction of vibration of the particles of the medium.

As the wave propagates from one point to another on the surface of water transferring energy, a molecule of water on its surface vibrates upwards and downwards. Its motion is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave. After the vibration, it comes back to its initial position.

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