can electromagnetic waves travel without a medium, but mechanical waves require a medium to travel?

Answer 1

Yes, that is correct. Electromagnetic waves, such as light and radio waves, do not require a medium to travel. They can propagate through empty space, as well as through various materials like air, water, and solids. On the other hand, mechanical waves, such as sound waves and water waves, require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to propagate. Mechanical waves transfer energy by causing particles in the medium to oscillate back and forth in a wave-like motion.