Surface waves are a type of mechanical wave that travel along the interface between two different media, such as air and water. They are commonly observed in oceans, where they create the familiar rolling waves that surfers enjoy. These waves are characterized by their elliptical motion, causing particles to move in circular paths as the wave passes. In addition to ocean waves, surface waves can also occur in solids, such as during an earthquake when seismic waves travel along the Earth's surface. This movement can lead to significant ground shaking, making surface waves crucial in understanding earthquake impacts and tsunami formation.