Question

comparing sound and light waves
which statement correctly compares sound and light waves?
both light and sound waves need matter to carry energy from one place to another.
neither light nor sound waves need matter to carry energy from one place to another.
light waves carry energy parallel to the motion of the wave, while sound waves carry energy perpendicular to it.
sound waves carry energy parallel to the motion of the wave, while light waves carry energy perpendicular to it.

Explanation:

Sound waves are mechanical waves and need a medium (matter) to travel as they transfer energy parallel to the wave - motion (longitudinal waves). Light waves are electromagnetic waves and can travel through a vacuum, not needing matter, and they transfer energy perpendicular to the wave - motion (transverse waves).

Answer:

Sound waves carry energy parallel to the motion of the wave, while light waves carry energy perpendicular to it.