Transverse mechanical waves cannot be propagated through

Options

A. solids
B. liquids
C. gases
D. Both (2) and (3)

Answer

To solve the question "Transverse mechanical waves cannot be propagated through," we need to understand the nature of transverse waves and the medium through which they can travel.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Transverse Waves**:
- Transverse waves are mechanical waves where the particle displacement is perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. This means that the particles of the medium move up and down while the wave travels horizontally.

**Hint**: Remember that in transverse waves, the motion of particles is perpendicular to the direction of wave travel.

2. **Medium for Wave Propagation**:
- Mechanical waves require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to propagate. The ability of a medium to support transverse waves depends on how closely the particles are packed and how they interact with each other.

**Hint**: Consider how the arrangement of particles in different states of matter affects wave propagation.

3. **Propagation in Solids**:
- In solids, particles are closely packed and can vibrate around their fixed positions. This allows transverse waves to propagate effectively through solids, as the vibrations can transfer energy in a perpendicular manner.

**Hint**: Think about how tightly packed particles can transmit vibrations compared to loosely packed particles.

4. **Propagation in Liquids and Gases**:
- In liquids and gases, the particles are not as closely packed as in solids. When energy is applied, particles can move freely and do not have a fixed position to vibrate around. As a result, they cannot support the perpendicular motion required for transverse waves.

**Hint**: Recall that in liquids and gases, particles can move past each other, which disrupts the ability to maintain transverse motion.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Since transverse mechanical waves can propagate through solids but not through liquids or gases, the correct answer to the question is that transverse mechanical waves cannot be propagated through liquids and gases.

**Final Answer**: The correct option is "both 2 and 3" (liquids and gases).