JIPMER2008PhysicsWaves and Sound
Which one of the following statements is true?
Options
- ABoth light and sound waves in air are transverse
- BThe sound waves in air are longitudinal while the light waves are transverse
- CBoth light and sound waves in air are longitudinal
- DBoth light and sound waves can travel in vacuum
Correct answer
B. The sound waves in air are longitudinal while the light waves are transverse
Step-by-step solution
In a longitudinal wave, the particles of the medium oscillate about their mean or equilibrium position along the direction of propagation of the wave itself. Sound waves are longitudinal in nature. In transverse wave, the particles of the medium oscillate about their mean or equilibrium position at right angles to the direction of propagation of wave itself. Light waves being electromagnetic are transverse waves.