Which of the following can be classified as a transverse wave?

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A transverse wave is characterized by oscillations that occur perpendicular to the direction the wave travels. Light waves, which are electromagnetic waves, exemplify this nature as they consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that are oriented at right angles to the direction of wave propagation.

In contrast, sound waves are longitudinal waves, where the oscillations occur in the same direction as the wave travels. Gravity waves and water waves can exhibit both longitudinal and transverse characteristics depending on their conditions, but they are not categorized solely as transverse waves. Therefore, light waves stand out as the clear example of a transverse wave among the options provided.

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