Question

which statement correctly compares sound and light waves?
○ both light and sound waves need matter to carry energy from one place to another.
○ neither light nor sound waves need matter to carry energy from one place to another.
○ light waves carry energy parallel to the motion of the wave, while sound waves carry energy perpendicular t
○ sound waves carry energy parallel to the motion of the wave, while light waves carry energy perpendicular t

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

1. Light waves are electromagnetic and don't need matter (they can travel in a vacuum), but sound waves are mechanical and need matter. So options about both/neither needing matter are wrong.
2. Sound waves are longitudinal (energy parallel to wave motion), light waves are transverse (energy perpendicular to wave motion).

• Option about light parallel and sound perpendicular is wrong.
• The option "Sound waves carry energy parallel to the motion of the wave, while light waves carry energy perpendicular to [the motion]" is correct.

Answer:

The option: "Sound waves carry energy parallel to the motion of the wave, while light waves carry energy perpendicular to [the motion]" (the last option in the list).