Question

sound waves are an example of what type of wave?
electromagnetic
longitudinal
surface
transverse
clear my selection

Explanation:

To determine the type of wave sound waves are, we analyze each option:

• Electromagnetic waves (e.g., light) don't require a medium and oscillate perpendicular to the direction of propagation. Sound needs a medium, so this is incorrect.
• Longitudinal waves have particle oscillations parallel to the wave's direction of travel. Sound waves in air (or other media) involve compression and rarefaction of particles, which is parallel to the wave's direction, so this fits.
• Surface waves (e.g., on water) are a combination of transverse and longitudinal, but sound is not a surface wave.
• Transverse waves (e.g., light, string waves) have particle oscillations perpendicular to the wave's direction. Sound doesn't behave this way, so this is incorrect.

Answer:

B. Longitudinal