Which of the following is an example of a mechanical wave?

A mechanical wave is a type of wave that requires a medium (such as air, water, or solid materials) to propagate. Sound waves are a prime example of mechanical waves because they travel through the vibrations of molecules in a medium. When an object vibrates, it creates pressure waves that move through air or another substance, allowing sound to be heard as these waves reach our ears.

In contrast, light waves, radio waves, and microwaves are examples of electromagnetic waves. These waves do not require a medium for propagation; they can travel through a vacuum, such as the vacuum of space. Thus, sound waves are uniquely classified as mechanical waves due to their dependence on a physical medium for transmission.