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