Wave propagation refers to the movement of waves through a medium, such as air, water, or solid materials. This phenomenon is fundamental in understanding how sound, light, and other types of waves travel and interact with their environment. For instance, sound waves travel through air by compressing and rarefying the air particles, allowing us to hear sounds from a distance.
In addition to sound, electromagnetic waves like light also propagate through various media, including vacuum. The study of wave propagation is crucial in fields such as telecommunications and seismology, where understanding how waves travel can lead to advancements in technology and safety measures.