What is required for the generation of a sound wave?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (C) Vibration and an elastic medium only.

Explanation:

• Sound waves are generated when a source causes vibrations. These vibrations create disturbances in a surrounding elastic medium (such as air, water, or solids).

• The elastic medium allows the vibrations to propagate as longitudinal waves, carrying sound energy through the medium.

• Sound cannot travel through a vacuum because there are no molecules to transmit the vibrations. Therefore, an elastic medium like air, water, or a solid material is necessary for sound wave propagation.

• Vibrations create alternating regions of compression and rarefaction, which form the sound wave.

Information Booster:

• Elastic medium: This is any material that can return to its original shape after being deformed, such as air or water, which allows the propagation of sound waves.

• Sound waves are longitudinal waves, meaning the particles of the medium move parallel to the direction of wave propagation (back and forth along the same line).

• Sound cannot propagate in a vacuum, as there are no particles to transmit the mechanical vibrations.

Additional Information:

• Option A is incorrect because a vacuum does not support the transmission of sound waves due to the absence of molecules.

• Option B is incorrect because electromagnetic waves (like light) do not require an elastic medium; they can propagate through a vacuum.

• Option D is incorrect because air molecules are not the only requirement—vibrations and an elastic medium are key components.