Sound waves are classified as which type of wave, based on how particles move relative to the wave’s direction of travel?

Explanation

Sound waves are longitudinal waves, meaning the particles of the medium vibrate back and forth in the same direction that the wave travels, creating alternating regions of compression and rarefaction. This differs from light, which travels as a transverse wave, where the oscillations occur perpendicular to the direction of travel. Water waves are often used as a visual, though imperfect, illustration of wave motion in general physics teaching. Explore more Everyday Science MCQs on mcqstutor to keep practicing.