Questions: What type of wave is a sound wave?
A. Surface
B. Electromagnetic
C. Transverse
D. Longitudinal
Transcript text: What type of wave is a sound wave?
A. Surface
B. Electromagnetic
C. Transverse
D. Longitudinal
Solution
Solution Steps
Step 1: Understanding the Nature of Sound Waves
Sound waves are mechanical waves that require a medium (such as air, water, or solids) to travel through. They are created by vibrating objects and propagate through the medium by causing the particles of the medium to vibrate.
Step 2: Identifying the Type of Wave
There are different types of waves, including surface waves, electromagnetic waves, transverse waves, and longitudinal waves. Sound waves specifically cause the particles of the medium to oscillate parallel to the direction of wave propagation.
Step 3: Determining the Correct Type
Given that sound waves cause particles to move back and forth in the same direction as the wave travels, they are classified as longitudinal waves. This is in contrast to transverse waves, where particle movement is perpendicular to wave direction.