#liquids

Wave Speed, Energy and Power

Why is the speed of sound higher in solids than in liquids?

**Energy transport** in waves scales with amplitude squared A² and frequency squared ω². Wave speed determines propagation rate, and understanding T and μ allows quantitative prediction of v and associated frequencies. Solids have greater elastic moduli (bulk and shear) than liquids, increasing the speed of sound ( v = √((elastic modulus/rho)) ), despite higher density, as elasticity dominates. Using v = fλ and standing-wave condition fₙ = n v/(2L) or v/(4L) as applicable, calculation yields Greater elastic modulus, illustrating frequency-length-speed interdependence and quantization by bounda

Ref: NCERT > Physics Book > Waves > Wave Speed, Energy and Power

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Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

Why can’t transverse waves propagate through a liquid medium?

**Nature of wave** determines energy transfer mechanism. Longitudinal nature of sound explains propagation through fluids with density variations carrying energy, unlike transverse waves needing rigidity for restoring force. Transverse waves require a medium to resist shear deformation (shear modulus). Liquids lack rigidity and cannot sustain shear stress, making transverse wave propagation impossible. Using v = fλ and standing-wave condition fₙ = n v/(2L) or v/(4L) as applicable, calculation yields Due to lack of rigidity, illustrating frequency-length-speed interdependence and quantization b

Ref: NCERT > Physics Book > Waves > Transverse and Longitudinal Waves

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Viscosity, Stokes' Law and Reynolds Number

What property distinguishes liquids and gases from solids in terms of shape?

Liquids and gases are fluids that can flow and take the shape of their container due to their inability to maintain a fixed shape, unlike solids, which have a definite shape due to strong intermolecular forces resisting deformation.

Ref: NCBI Bookshelf, Ideal Gas Law: P1V1/T1 = P2V2/T2.

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Elastic Properties and Applications

Which modulus is not applicable for describing the elastic behavior of liquids and gases under shear stress?

The shear modulus is not applicable for liquids and gases because they do not sustain shear stress and instead flow; only solids have a defined shear modulus. As per NCERT, applying relevant law/formula with correct units and sign convention leads to Shear modulus. This satisfies dimensional consistency and physical conditions given, so option D is scientifically correct.

Ref: NCBI Bookshelf, Ideal Gas Law: P1V1/T1 = P2V2/T2.

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