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Q35 (CAPF/2019) Science & Technology › Basic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) › Waves and acoustics Answer Verified

Which one of the following is NOT an electromagnetic wave?

Result
Your answer: —  Â·  Correct: C
Explanation

Waves are primarily classified into mechanical and electromagnetic waves based on their propagation requirements. Sound waves are mechanical waves that require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel, propagating through the compression and rarefaction of that medium [1]. In contrast, electromagnetic waves do not require a medium and can travel through a vacuum. The electromagnetic spectrum includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. Light waves are specifically identified as transverse electromagnetic waves [1]. Radio waves and microwaves are also integral parts of this spectrum, characterized by their specific wavelengths and frequencies [2]. Therefore, while light, radio, and microwaves are electromagnetic in nature, sound is a mechanical wave and does not belong to the electromagnetic spectrum [2].

Sources

  1. [1] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 5: Earths Magnetic Field (Geomagnetic Field) > Why Do Sound Waves Travel Faster In A Denser Medium Whereas Light Travels Slower? > p. 64
  2. [2] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 20: Earths Atmosphere > Why Are Microwaves And Some Radio Waves Not Reflected By The Ionosphere? > p. 278
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