What are waves caused by vibrations that can be perceived by the ear?

Prepare for the DIVE Integrated Chemistry and Physics (ICP) Quarterly Exam 4 with our interactive quizzes. Study key ICP concepts with flashcards, multiple choice questions, hints, and detailed explanations. Get ready to excel in your exam!

Sound waves are mechanical waves caused by vibrations that travel through a medium such as air, water, or solids and can be perceived by the ear. These waves are created when an object vibrates, causing the surrounding particles to oscillate and transmit energy through the medium. The frequency of these vibrations determines the pitch of the sound, while the amplitude relates to its volume.

In contrast, light waves are electromagnetic waves and do not require a medium to travel. Radio waves, also electromagnetic, are typically associated with communication technologies rather than sound perception. The term "ultra waves" is not standard in physics and does not correspond to a recognized category of waves. This reinforces the distinction between sound waves and other types of waves related to different phenomena. Therefore, sound waves are uniquely suited to be perceived by the ear due to their properties and the way they interact with our auditory system.

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