Question

Describe two ways in which light differs from all other forms of wave energy.

a) Light exhibits interference and diffraction
b) Light can travel through a vacuum and has a constant speed in a vacuum
c) Light is a transverse wave and can be polarized
d) Light can exhibit both particle and wave characteristics

Answer 1

Light differs from other forms of wave energy in two ways: interference and diffraction, and the ability to travel through a vacuum with a constant speed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Light differs from other forms of wave energy in several ways:

1. Interference and diffraction: Light exhibits interference and diffraction, which are characteristics of waves. Interference is the interaction of two or more waves, leading to constructive or destructive interference. Diffraction is the bending of waves around obstacles or through narrow openings.
2. Travel through vacuum and constant speed: Light can travel through a vacuum, unlike other forms of wave energy. It also has a constant speed in a vacuum, which is approximately 3 x 10^8 meters per second (m/s).