mechanical waves

A mechanical wave is a wave that is an oscillation of matter, and therefore transfers energy through a material medium. (Vacuum is from classical perspective, a non-material medium, where electromagnetic waves propagate.)

While waves can move over long distances, the movement of the medium of transmission—the material—is limited. Therefore, the oscillating material does not move far from its initial equilibrium position. Mechanical waves can be produced only in media which possess elasticity and inertia.

There are two types of mechanical waves: transverse waves and longitudinal waves.