Polarization requires transverse waves

Steps:

• Longitudinal waves oscillate parallel to their propagation direction, like sound waves.
• Transverse waves oscillate perpendicular to propagation, allowing directional restriction.
• Polarization confines oscillation to a specific plane or direction, possible only in transverse waves.
• Thus, longitudinal waves lack the perpendicular component needed for polarization.

Why B is correct:

• Polarization is defined as the orientation of transverse oscillations; longitudinal waves have no such perpendicular displacement to polarize.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Diffraction occurs in longitudinal waves, such as sound bending around obstacles.
• C: Reflection applies to longitudinal waves, like sound echoes off surfaces.
• D: Stationary waves form in longitudinal media, such as standing sound waves in pipes.

Final answer: B