Progressive waves transfer energy universally

Steps:

• Recall that progressive waves propagate energy through a medium or space without net matter displacement.
• Evaluate option A: Peak-to-trough distance is half the wavelength, not full.
• Evaluate option B: Ripple tanks show water waves, but not electromagnetic or longitudinal waves like sound.
• Evaluate option C: Mechanical waves involve particle vibration, but electromagnetic waves do not.
• Confirm option D: All progressive waves carry energy from source to receiver.

Why D is correct:

• By definition, progressive waves transfer energy progressively from one point to another while the medium returns to equilibrium.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Peak-to-trough spans λ/2, not λ.
• B: Limited to transverse water waves; excludes sound or light.
• C: Applies only to mechanical waves; electromagnetic waves use fields, not atoms.

Final answer: D