Step 1: Understand the Nature of Sound Waves.
Sound is a mechanical wave that requires a medium to propagate. It can travel through:
1. Solids:
Sound travels fastest in solids due to their high density and strong intermolecular forces.
2. Liquids:
Sound travels slower in liquids compared to solids but faster than in gases due to the intermediate density and molecular interactions.
3. Vacuum:
Sound cannot travel through a vacuum because there are no particles to transmit the wave. A vacuum lacks the medium necessary for sound propagation.
Step 2: Analyze Each Option.
Option (1): Solid — Incorrect, as sound can also travel through liquids.
Option (2): Liquid — Incorrect, as sound can also travel through solids.
Option (3): Vacuum — Incorrect, as sound cannot travel through a vacuum.
Option (4): 1 and 2 both — Correct, as sound can travel through both solids and liquids.
Step 3: Final Answer.
$$
(4) \mathbf{1 \text{ and } 2 \text{ both}}
$$