Question:

Which one of the following statements is true?

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A simple memory trick: "L" in Light does not mean Longitudinal. Electromagnetic waves are always Transverse. Sound in fluids (gases and liquids) can only be Longitudinal because fluids lack the shear strength necessary to support transverse waves.
Updated On: Jun 4, 2026
  • The sound waves in air are longitudinal while the light waves in air are transverse.
  • Both light and sound waves in air are transverse.
  • Both light and sound waves in air are longitudinal.
  • The sound waves are transverse and light waves are longitudinal.
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
We must correctly identify the physical nature of sound waves and light waves propagating through air.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's define the two fundamental types of mechanical and electromagnetic wave propagation:
1.

Sound Waves: In a gaseous medium like air, sound propagates through a series of compressions and rarefactions. The particles of the air vibrate parallel to the direction of wave propagation. This makes sound waves strictly longitudinal in air.
2.

Light Waves: Light is an electromagnetic wave. It propagates via oscillating electric and magnetic fields that are mutually perpendicular to each other and also perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Therefore, light waves are strictly transverse.
Comparing these facts to the given options, only statement (A) correctly classifies both wave types.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The true statement is that sound waves in air are longitudinal while light waves in air are transverse, matching option (A).
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