The representation of sound waves as sine curves and light waves as straight lines is a result of the mathematical description used to analyze and understand these waves. The distinction in representation does not imply a fundamental difference between sound waves and light waves themselves.
Sound waves are typically represented by sine curves because they are longitudinal waves, meaning the particles of the medium vibrate back and forth in the same direction as the wave propagation. Sine curves are a mathematical representation commonly used to describe oscillatory phenomena, including the periodic variations in pressure caused by sound waves. The y-axis of a sound wave graph represents the pressure or displacement of the particles, while the x-axis represents time or distance.
On the other hand, light waves are typically represented by straight lines because they are transverse waves. In transverse waves, the particles of the medium vibrate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. However, it's important to note that when light waves are represented as straight lines, it usually refers to the electric or magnetic field components of the wave, rather than the wave itself. Light waves are typically described using the mathematical framework of electromagnetic waves, which involve oscillating electric and magnetic fields at right angles to each other and to the direction of wave propagation.
In terms of fundamental nature, sound waves and light waves are both forms of energy that propagate through a medium or a vacuum. They both exhibit wave-like properties, such as interference, diffraction, and the ability to transmit energy. However, they differ in several important aspects, including the physical nature of the medium through which they propagate (sound waves require a material medium, while light waves can travel through a vacuum), their speed of propagation, and the range of frequencies they encompass.
So, while sound waves and light waves are represented differently mathematically, these representations are a reflection of the particular properties and characteristics of each wave type, rather than indicating a fundamental difference between them.