* Mechanical Waves: These waves require a medium to travel. They are disturbances that travel through a medium, causing particles within the medium to oscillate. Examples include sound waves, water waves, and waves on a string.

* Electromagnetic Waves: These waves do not require a medium to travel. They are disturbances in electric and magnetic fields that can travel through a vacuum. Examples include light, radio waves, and X-rays.

How Ocean Waves Work:

Ocean waves are created by wind transferring energy to the water's surface. The wind causes water molecules to move in a circular pattern, creating the wave crest and trough. This motion is transferred to neighboring water molecules, allowing the wave to propagate.

Key takeaway: Ocean waves need water (a medium) to travel, making them mechanical waves.