Which of the following phenomenon is not common to sound and light waves

Options

A. interference
B. diffraction
C. polarisation
D. reflection

Answer

To determine which phenomenon is not common to sound and light waves, we need to analyze the properties of both types of waves.

### Step 1: Understand the Nature of Sound and Light Waves
- Sound waves are longitudinal waves, meaning the oscillations of the medium (air, water, etc.) occur in the same direction as the wave travels.
- Light waves, on the other hand, are transverse waves, where the oscillations occur perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.

**Hint:** Identify the types of waves and their characteristics.

### Step 2: Identify Common Phenomena
Common phenomena associated with both sound and light waves include:
- Reflection: Both sound and light can reflect off surfaces.
- Refraction: Both can bend when passing through different mediums.
- Diffraction: Both can spread out when passing through narrow openings.

**Hint:** List the phenomena and check if they apply to both types of waves.

### Step 3: Identify Phenomena Unique to Each Wave Type
One phenomenon that is unique to light waves is polarization. Polarization refers to the orientation of the oscillations in a transverse wave. Since sound waves are longitudinal, they cannot be polarized.

**Hint:** Consider which phenomena are specific to the wave type based on their characteristics.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Since polarization is a phenomenon that can only occur in transverse waves (like light) and not in longitudinal waves (like sound), it is the answer to the question.

Thus, the phenomenon that is not common to sound and light waves is **polarization**.

**Final Answer:** Polarization (Option C)