Question

3 how are light waves different from sound waves? a sound waves can travel through empty space; light waves cannot b light waves can travel through empty space; sound waves cannot c sound waves have an amplitude; light waves do not d light waves are compressional; sound waves are transverse

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Sound waves are mechanical and require a medium (like air, water, or solids) to travel. They cannot travel through empty space (vacuum). Light waves are electromagnetic and can travel through a vacuum. So A is incorrect.
• Option B: Light waves (electromagnetic) can travel through empty space (e.g., from the Sun to Earth through the vacuum of space). Sound waves (mechanical) need a medium and cannot travel through a vacuum. This is correct.
• Option C: Both sound waves and light waves have amplitude. Amplitude relates to the energy or intensity of the wave (e.g., loudness for sound, brightness for light). So C is incorrect.
• Option D: Sound waves are compressional (longitudinal), meaning the particles of the medium vibrate parallel to the direction of wave propagation. Light waves are transverse, meaning the oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. So D has the types reversed and is incorrect.

Answer:

B. Light waves can travel through empty space; sound waves cannot