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1 vote
Which property describes an electromagnetic wave and not a mechanical wave?

A. transfers energy
B. travels in a vacuum
C. has frequency
D. requires a medium

2 Answers

4 votes

B. travels in a vacuum

Step-by-step explanation:

Electromagnetic waves are periodic oscillations of an electric field and a magnetic field, which occur perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave. The main property of these waves is that they do not a medium to propagate: in fact, electromagnetic waves can also travel in a vacuum (e.g. they can travel in space).

On the contrary, mechanical waves are oscillations of the particles in a medium, so they do need a medium to propagate.

Therefore, the main difference between electromagnetic waves and mechanical waves is that the former can travel in a vacuum, while the latter cannot.

User OusecTic
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5 votes
The property that describes an electromagnetic wave and not a mechanical wave is travels in a a vacuum. That will make the correct answer B. I hope that helps you. 
User Michael Lindsay
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