In the context of waves, what does 'transmit' mean?

The term 'transmit' in the context of waves refers to the process by which a wave moves through a medium. This can involve various types of waves, such as sound waves traveling through air, light waves passing through glass, or seismic waves moving through the Earth. When a wave transmits, it maintains its energy and information as it travels, allowing the wave to reach a different location. This distinct process is crucial to understanding how waves interact with different materials and environments.

For example, when light waves enter water from air, they transmit through the water but can also undergo refraction, changing direction. However, the key concept of transmission remains that the wave is effectively moving through the medium, enabling communication of energy or information across distances. This is a fundamental concept in wave physics and is essential for various applications in science and technology, such as communication, medical imaging, and environmental monitoring.