Q169 / 180 · COMEDK 2013 · Physics

Sound waves in air are always longitudinal because

  • A
    of the inherent characteristics of sound waves in air
  • Correct answer
    B
    air does not have a modulus of rigidity
  • C
    air is a mixture of several gases
  • D
    density of air is very small

Solution

Longitudinal waves in air travels in the form as compression and rarefaction that changes its elastic properties. The air is a completely elastic medium, which does not have a modulus of rigidity. So, sound waves travel in it as a longitudinal wave.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'B'.

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