Comparing Light and Sound Waves

Front

Electromagnetic waves

Back

waves that can travel through a vacuum

Front

Mechanical waves

Back

waves that require a medium to travel

Front

Reflection of light

Back

back of light waves from a surface

Front

Reflection of sound

Back

sound waves bouncing back

Front

Refraction of light

Back

of light waves when passing through different media

Front

Refraction of sound

Back

in direction of sound waves due to speed change in different media

Front

Absorption of light

Back

waves absorbed by a material, not reflected or transmitted

Front

Absorption of sound

Back

waves absorbed by a material, reducing echo

Front

Diffraction of light

Back

waves bending around obstacles

Front

Diffraction of sound

Back

waves spreading out after passing through a gap