Atomic bombs send out a shock wave when they are detonated. This occurs because the bomb's detonation superheats the air particles nearby, which cause them to bump into other air particles that further the wave.

Question:

Atomic bombs send out a shock wave when they are detonated. this occurs because the bomb’s detonation superheats the air particles nearby, which cause them to bump into other air particles that further the wave.

which statement can most likely be made about the shock waves of atomic bombs?

a. they are a mechanical waves.

b. they are an electromagnetic waves.

c. they will act like x-rays.

d. they will act like light rays

The correct option is;

a. they are a mechanical waves.

Explanation:

The shock waves of atomic bombs are mechanical waves which constitute the movement, back and forth, of particulate mater (oscillation), which results in energy (heat) transfer by means of a medium (air particles) over a distance.

As it is a longitudinal, mechanical wave, the motion of the air particles is in the direction of the wave and is limited to within the original region of the particle before the blast, maintaining as equilibrium position while transferring the energy to the adjacent neighboring air particle.