Question

how is a transverse wave different than a longitudinal wave?

Answer 1

In a longitudinal wave, the motion of the medium is parallel to the direction of the wave.

A transverse wave is a wave in which the motion of the medium is a right angles to the direction of the wave.

Answer 2

Longitudinal and transverse waves are mechanical waves, so both carry energy through particles of matter. Longitudinal waves transfer energy parallel to the direction of wave motion, and transverse waves transfer energy perpendicular to the direction of wave motion.