Question

Which one or more of the following reason(s) explain(s) why whales use low frequencies (infrasound) for mate-finding and high frequencies (ultrasound) for hunting prey?

• A. High frequencies transmit further without distortion than low frequencies.
• B. High frequencies scatter more and allow for high-resolution information.
• C. Low frequencies transmit further without distortion than high frequencies.
• D. Low frequencies scatter more and allow for high-resolution information.

Hint:

Low frequencies are better for long-range communication, while high frequencies offer more detailed resolution for close-range activities like hunting.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, C

Step 1: Understanding sound propagation.
Whales use different frequencies for different purposes based on how sound travels through water. Low frequencies (infrasound) travel long distances with minimal distortion, making them useful for communication and mate-finding over long distances. High frequencies (ultrasound), on the other hand, scatter more but provide higher resolution, making them ideal for hunting prey as they allow whales to detect smaller, closer objects.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) High frequencies transmit further without distortion than low frequencies: This is incorrect because low frequencies transmit further with less distortion compared to high frequencies.
- (B) High frequencies scatter more and allow for high-resolution information: This is correct in terms of high-frequency characteristics, but it doesn't explain why whales use both low and high frequencies for different purposes.
- (C) Low frequencies transmit further without distortion than high frequencies: This is correct because low frequencies can travel further with less distortion, making them ideal for long-distance communication.
- (D) Low frequencies scatter more and allow for high-resolution information: This is also correct, as low frequencies can scatter more, enabling better detection of prey in high-resolution detail.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answers are (C) and (D), as they explain the different benefits of low frequencies (long-range transmission with minimal distortion and high-resolution scattering for prey detection).