Which of the following best defines a mechanical wave?

A mechanical wave is defined as a disturbance that travels through a medium, which can be a solid, liquid, or gas, and is required for the wave to propagate. This means that mechanical waves cannot exist in a vacuum, as there is no medium for the wave to transmit through. This definition is essential in understanding the nature of different types of waves in physics, as it distinguishes mechanical waves from electromagnetic waves, which can travel through a vacuum.

The key characteristic of a mechanical wave is its dependence on the medium. For example, sound waves are mechanical waves that require air (or another medium) to travel; if there is no air, sound cannot propagate. This principle is foundational in fields such as acoustics and fluid dynamics, where the behavior of waves in different media is analyzed.