Question

multiple choice question
a transverse wave causes a disturbance _.
perpendicular to the direction of its travel
parallel to the direction of its travel
but it is unrelated to the direction of its travel
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Explanation:

A transverse wave is defined as a wave where the disturbance (vibration of particles) is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. For example, in a wave on a string, the string moves up and down (disturbance) while the wave travels horizontally (direction of travel). In contrast, a longitudinal wave has disturbance parallel to the direction of travel (like sound waves in air where air particles oscillate back - and - forth along the direction of sound wave propagation). The option "but it is unrelated to the direction of its travel" is incorrect as there is a defined geometric relationship (perpendicular) for transverse waves.

Answer:

perpendicular to the direction of its travel