Which of the following does not travel in vacuum?
Correct answer: C. Sound waves
- A. Transverse waves
- B. Radio waves
- C. Sound waves
- D. Light rays
Explanation
Sound waves are mechanical waves that need a medium for their propagation whereas light and radio waves are electromagnetic so they can travel in vacuum and are considered transverse types of waves (whose oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of the wave motion).
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About Waves
Progressive waves transfer energy through oscillations, with wavelength, frequency, amplitude and wave speed related by v = fλ; sound speed depends on the medium. Superposition produces interference and stationary waves in strings and organ pipes, while simple harmonic motion describes the oscillation itself and must be distinguished from wave propagation.
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