Exploring Mechanical and Electromagnetic Waves

The video tutorial explains the differences between mechanical and electromagnetic waves. Mechanical waves require a medium to transport energy, while electromagnetic waves do not. Mechanical waves are categorized into transverse, longitudinal, and surface waves, whereas electromagnetic waves are always transverse in free space. The speed of mechanical waves depends on the medium, while electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light in a vacuum. Examples of mechanical waves include sound and seismic waves, while electromagnetic waves include radio waves and visible light. The tutorial also compares light and sound, highlighting their propagation characteristics.

What is the primary difference between mechanical and electromagnetic waves?

• Mechanical waves require a medium.

• Electromagnetic waves require a medium.

• Electromagnetic waves cannot travel in a vacuum.

• Mechanical waves can travel in a vacuum.

Which of the following is NOT an example of a medium for mechanical waves?

• Air

• Water

• Vacuum

• Solids

In a transverse wave, how does the wave oscillate relative to the direction of propagation?

• Diagonally

• Perpendicularly

• Parallel

• Randomly

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Which type of mechanical wave oscillates parallel to the direction of propagation?

• Electromagnetic wave

• Transverse wave

• Surface wave

• Longitudinal wave

What type of wave is created when you throw a penny into a lake?

• Transverse wave

• Longitudinal wave

• Electromagnetic wave

• Surface wave

How do electromagnetic waves behave in free space?

• They require a medium.

• They cannot travel.

• They are always transverse.

• They are always longitudinal.

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At what speed do electromagnetic waves travel in a vacuum?

• Depends on the type of wave

• Variable speed

• Speed of light

• Speed of sound

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Which of the following is an example of a mechanical wave?

• Visible light

• Sound waves

• X-rays

• Radio waves

What happens to air molecules when sound passes through them?

• They remain stationary.

• They vibrate and collide.

• They disappear.

• They change color.

Why can light travel through space?

• It is a surface wave.

• It is a mechanical wave.

• It requires a medium.

• It is an electromagnetic wave.

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