Rankers Physics

Waves and its Characteristics: Practice Problem & Solution

Which one of the following statement is true? (2006)
Both light and sound waves can travel in vacuum
Both light and sound waves in air are transverse
The sound waves in air are longitudinal while the light waves are transverse
Both light and sound waves in air are longitudinal

Solution Explained:

To solve this problem, we apply the core principles of Waves and its Characteristics. Understanding the underlying formula is key to arriving at the correct answer below:

Light waves are electromagnetic in nature and are transverse waves; they do not require a medium to propagate. Sound waves are mechanical waves and are longitudinal in fluids like air.

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