Question

Which of the following statements are true for wave motion?

• A. Mechanical transverse waves can propagate through all mediums
• B. Longitudinal waves can propagate through solids only
• C. Mechanical transverse waves can propagate through solids only
• D. Longitudinal waves can propagate through vacuum

Answer 1

The correct option is C Mechanical transverse waves can propagate through solids only

When mechanical transverse wave propagates through a medium, the particles of the medium oscillate perpendicular to wave motion causing change in shape. Hence each constituent particle of the medium is subjected to shearing stress. Solids (i.e string) have shear modulus, therefore they sustain shearing stress. Hence transverse waves propagate through solids.

Fluids can not sustain shear stress. Hence transverse waves are possible in solids and strings but not in fluids.
$\Rightarrow$Note: waves on ocean surface are neither longitudinal nor transverse rather they are special waves called surface waves.