Question

It is possible to distinguish between the transverse and longitudinal waves by studying the property of
(A) Interference
(B) Diffraction
(C) Reflection
(D) Polarisation

Answer 1

Hint: To distinguish between the transverse and longitudinal waves we have to see that these Interference, Diffraction, Reflection and Polarisation happen with which wave or not.

Complete step by step solution
To explain this problem firstly we have to know what is longitudinal and what is transverse waves.
So, first
Longitudinal Wave: The wave which has vibrations or a periodic disturbance in the direction of propagation is called Longitudinal wave. To understand this longitudinal wave, take the coiled spring and fix the one end to a rigid support now stretched the spring horizontally we got the longitudinal wave analogy. Sound is also moving like a longitudinal wave which is rare and compresses the air molecules and transverse the energy in the same direction.
Transverse Wave: The wave which has vibration of particles or the periodic disturbance of particles in the perpendicular direction of the propagation of particle or wave is called the Transverse wave. To understand this transverse wave, take the sine or cosine curve so the distance from the axis is the amplitude of the transverse wave. The complete one revolution or oscillation is called the period of the transverse wave. In this wave the energy propagation is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.
Now we come on the properties of the waves.
Interference occurs in both longitudinal and transverse waves.
Diffraction occurs in both longitudinal and transvers waves.
Reflection occurs in both longitudinal and transverse waves.
But the polarisation occurs not in longitudinal waves it occurs only in Transverse wave.

Hence the (D) Polarisation is the correct answer.

Note: Here we have to concentrate that both waves have not the same properties. As we can see here both the waves have these three properties (Interference, Diffraction and Reflection) but the only Transverse wave has the Polarisation property.