Among the following statements, the correct statement for a wave is:
Transverse waves cannot propagate through all media
Longitudinal waves can propagate through solids only
Transverse waves can propagate through solids
Longitudinal waves can propagate through vacuum
To solve the problem, we need to identify the correct statement about the propagation of waves.
1. Understanding Wave Types:
There are two main types of mechanical waves:
- Transverse Waves: In these waves, particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. These waves require a medium with rigidity to propagate and generally do not travel through gases or liquids. They can propagate through solids.
- Longitudinal Waves: In these waves, particle displacement is parallel to the wave direction. These waves can propagate through solids, liquids, and gases.
2. Evaluate Each Option:
- Option (1): "Transverse waves cannot propagate through all media" – This is true, but not the best or most complete statement.
- Option (2): "Longitudinal waves can propagate through solids only" – This is incorrect, they can propagate through all states of matter.
- Option (3): "Transverse waves can propagate through solids" – This is correct and accurate.
- Option (4): "Longitudinal waves can propagate through vacuum" – This is false; mechanical waves (including longitudinal) cannot travel through a vacuum.
Final Answer:
Transverse waves can propagate through solids is the correct statement.
The correct option is: (C): Transverse waves can propagate through solids.
Waves encompass disturbances capable of propagating through a medium, transferring energy without involving the movement of physical matter. Waves can be categorized based on the nature of their oscillation:
Longitudinal waves - These arise when particles oscillate in alignment with the direction of wave propagation.
Transverse waves - These emerge when particles oscillate at right angles to the direction of wave propagation.