Question
How do particles move as sound travels through air? a. Vibrate along the direction of wave propagation b. Vibrate but not in any fixed direction C. Vibrate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation d. Do not vibrate
Answer
4.5
(235 Votes)
Jen
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
a. Vibrate along the direction of wave propagation
Explanation
## Step 1: Understand the nature of sound waves. Sound waves are a type of mechanical wave, which means they require a medium to travel. In this case, the medium is air.## Step 2: Identify the motion of particles in a sound wave. The particles of the medium (air in this case) vibrate in a direction parallel to the direction of the wave. This type of wave is known as a longitudinal wave.## Step 3: Match the characteristics of sound waves with the given options. The particles vibrate along the direction of wave propagation, which aligns with option a.