Transverse waves can propagate

Options

A. both in a gas and a metal
B. in a gas but not in a metal
C. not in a gas but in a metal
D. neither in a gas nor in a metal

Answer

To solve the question "Transverse waves can propagate," we need to analyze the properties of transverse waves and the mediums mentioned: gas and metal.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Transverse Waves**:
- Transverse waves are waves where the particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Examples include waves on a string and electromagnetic waves.

2. **Properties of Gases**:
- Gases do not have shear elasticity. This means that they cannot resist shear stress, which is necessary for the propagation of transverse waves. In a gas, particles are free to move in all directions, and there is no fixed structure to support transverse motion.

3. **Properties of Metals (Solids)**:
- Metals, being solids, possess shear elasticity. This means they can resist shear stress and can support transverse waves. When a transverse wave travels through a metal, the particles oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave travel.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- Option 1: "Both in gas and a metal" - Incorrect, as transverse waves cannot propagate in gases.
- Option 2: "In a gas but not in metal" - Incorrect, as transverse waves can propagate in metals.
- Option 3: "Not in a gas but in a metal" - Correct, as transverse waves cannot propagate in gases but can in metals.
- Option 4: "Neither in gas nor in metal" - Incorrect, as transverse waves can propagate in metals.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **Option 3: Not in a gas but in a metal**.