Question

A big explosion on the Moon cannot be heard on the Earth. Which of the following statement is the correct explanation for this?

• A. The explosion produces high frequency sound waves which are inaudible.
• B. Sound waves require a material medium for propagation.
• C. Sound waves are absorbed in the moon’s atmosphere.
• D. Sound waves are absorbed in the earth’s atmosphere.

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Sound waves require a material medium for propagation.

Sound waves require a material medium for propagation. There is vacuum between Earth and Moon. In vacuum, there are no molecules (material medium) through which sound waves produced by the mechanical vibrations of the explosion can propagate. Therefore, big explosion on the Moon cannot be heard on the Earth.