Light vs. Sound

Front

What type of wave is sound?

Back

Sound is a longitudinal wave.

Front

What type of wave is light?

Back

Light is a transverse wave.

Front

Can sound travel through empty space?

Back

No, sound cannot travel through empty space.

Front

Can light travel through empty space?

Back

Yes, light can travel through empty space.

Front

What is the speed of light in a vacuum?

Back

The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately 299,792 kilometers per second.

Front

What is the speed of sound in air at room temperature?

Back

The speed of sound in air at room temperature is approximately 343 meters per second.

Front

What is the main difference in how sound and light waves transfer energy?

Back

Sound waves transfer energy through the vibration of particles, while light waves transfer energy through electromagnetic radiation.

Front

Why do we see lightning before we hear thunder?

Back

We see lightning before we hear thunder because light travels faster than sound.

Front

What is a medium in the context of sound waves?

Back

A medium is a substance through which sound waves travel, such as air, water, or solids.

Front

What is an example of a longitudinal wave?

Back

An example of a longitudinal wave is a sound wave.