Q114 / 160 · JIPMER 2011 · Physics

Which one of the following statements is true?

A
Both light and sound waves in air are transverse
Correct answer
B
The sound waves in air are longitudinal while the light waves are transverse
C
Both light and sound waves in air are longitudinal
D
Both light and sound waves can travel in vacנum

Solution

Sound wave is longitudinal because the medium particles move parallel to the direction of wave propagation, whereas a light wave is transverse because the medium particles move perpendicular to direction of wave propagation. Hence, option 2 is correct.

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

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