Which one of the following statements is true?
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
Both light and sound waves can travel in vacuum
B.
The sound waves in air are longitudinal while the light waves are transverse
Sound waves are longitudinal waves, meaning that the waves propagate by compression and rarefaction of their medium. They are termed longitudinal waves because the particles in the medium through which the wave travels oscillate parallel in direction of motion.
Longitudinal waves transmit energy by compressing and refracting the medium in the same direction as they are travelling. Sound waves are longitudinal waves are travel by compressing the air through which they travel, causing vibration.
Light and sound waves both are forms of wave motion, sound requires a solid, liquid or gaseous medium; whereas light travels through empty space. the denser the medium, the greater the speed of sound.
