What are the differences between sound waves and electromagnetic waves?

Propagation:
Sound waves are longitudinal, meaning that the vibrations occur parallel to the direction of propagation (travel).

Electromagnetic waves are transverse, meaning that the vibrations occur perpendicular to the direction of propagation.

Medium:
Sound waves are physical, so the oscillations are formed from vibrating solid liquid or gas, so require a medium to travel through.

Electromagnetic waves cause oscillations in electric and magnetic fields, so do not require a medium.

Speed:
Sound waves travel at about 300 m/s (but is dependent on the medium).

Electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light, i.e. around 300,000,000 m/s.

WL
Answered by Wendy L. Physics tutor

70534 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What actually is current? Why does it differ from potential difference?


Describe how you could find the density of a cube of metal? (4 marks) (Example from GCSE bitesize)


Define Newton's three laws


Describe how the velocity and forces acting on a skydiver change during their fall (6 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning