Question

Why are sound waves called mechanical waves​

Answer 1

Mechanical waves is characterised by the motion of the particles of the medium. Sound needs a material medium like air, water, steel, etc. for its propagation.

Hence, sound waves are called mechanical waves.

Answer 2

Answer:

A wave is a disturbance that travels from one place to another.

Waves can be classified on the basis of the direction of movement as:

Longitudinal wave- When particles of wave vibrate in a direction parallel to the direction of the wave then the wave is said to be longitudinal.

Transverse wave- When particles of a wave vibrate in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the wave then the wave is said to be transversal.

Waves can be classified on the basis of energy transmission through a medium as:

Electromagnetic wave- Waves that do not require medium to travel are known as an electromagnetic wave.

Mechanical wave- Waves that require a medium ( solid, liquid or gas) to travel are known as mechanical waves.

A sound wave is a wave in which particles vibrate in the direction parallel to the direction of the wave. So, sound waves are longitudinal. Also, it cannot travel through a vacuum and requires a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel.

Explanation:

Thus, a sound wave is called a mechanical wave