Which statement accurately describes the main difference between sound and light?

Which statement accurately describes the main difference between sound and light?

• A. Light can travel through a vacuum, but sound cannot.
• B. Sound travels faster than light.
• C. Light requires a medium to travel.
• D. Sound can travel through a vacuum.

Answer: (A)

The statement that light can travel through a vacuum, but sound cannot, accurately describes a fundamental difference between the two types of waves. Light is an electromagnetic wave, which means it does not require a medium to propagate. This allows it to travel through the vacuum of space, such as the vast emptiness between celestial bodies. On the other hand, sound is a mechanical wave, which means it requires a medium—such as air, water, or solid materials—to travel. Without a medium, sound cannot propagate and therefore cannot be heard in a vacuum. This distinction is crucial in understanding the different behaviors of sound and light waves in various environments. The other statements do not hold true: sound does not travel faster than light; in fact, light travels much faster. Light also does not require a medium to travel, which is the opposite of sound. Hence, the correct understanding of the nature of sound and light demonstrates why this statement is accurate.

The statement that light can travel through a vacuum, but sound cannot, accurately describes a fundamental difference between the two types of waves. Light is an electromagnetic wave, which means it does not require a medium to propagate. This allows it to travel through the vacuum of space, such as the vast emptiness between celestial bodies.

On the other hand, sound is a mechanical wave, which means it requires a medium—such as air, water, or solid materials—to travel. Without a medium, sound cannot propagate and therefore cannot be heard in a vacuum. This distinction is crucial in understanding the different behaviors of sound and light waves in various environments.

The other statements do not hold true: sound does not travel faster than light; in fact, light travels much faster. Light also does not require a medium to travel, which is the opposite of sound. Hence, the correct understanding of the nature of sound and light demonstrates why this statement is accurate.