A student is exploring mechanical and electromagnetic waves, compiling a list of questions for her investigation into the properties of each wave type. Which of the following questions would NOT aid her in learning about the properties of both mechanical and electromagnetic waves?

options:

What is the amplitude of the wave?
What is the amplitude of the wave?

What is the wavelength of the wave?
What is the wavelength of the wave?

What is the wave speed in a vacuum?
What is the wave speed in a vacuum?

What is the frequency of the wave?

1 answer

The question that would NOT aid in learning about the properties of both mechanical and electromagnetic waves is:

What is the wave speed in a vacuum?

This is because only electromagnetic waves can propagate in a vacuum, whereas mechanical waves require a medium (such as air, water, or solid substances) to travel through. Thus, this question specifically pertains only to electromagnetic waves and does not apply to mechanical waves.