Differences between the progressive wave and the stationary wave are as follows:
SN | Progressive Wave | Stationary Wave |
1. | The disturbance travels in the forward direction. | The disturbances are confined to a particular region. |
2. | The amplitude of vibration of each particle is the same. | The amplitude is zero at nodes and maximum at antinodes. |
3. | Energy is transferred forward along the waves. | There is no transfer of energy in the medium. |
4. | No particles in the medium are permanently at rest but momentarily at rest at the extreme positions. | Particles at the nodes are permanently at rest. |
5. |
The wave equation of progressive wave is: |
The wave equation of stationary wave is: |
Progressive waves move energy starting with one spot then onto the next, without moving the matter. Stationary waves don't move energy starting with one spot then onto the next. In addition, Progressive waves bring a net measure of energy through the way of the wave. A stationary wave doesn't help net energy through the way.