The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Sound waves behave similarly to light waves when encountering obstacles. The phenomenon of sound bouncing back from the surface of a solid or liquid is known as the reflection of sound, and it is governed by the same fundamental laws that apply to light reflection.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. Sound strictly follows the laws of reflection. Just like light, sound waves require a conducting medium and reflect off surfaces according to established physical principles.
- Statement 2 is Correct. Reflection of sound occurs when sound waves strike the surface of a solid (such as a wall or cliff) or a liquid and return to the original medium. Hard and smooth surfaces are effective reflectors, while soft and porous surfaces tend to absorb sound.
- Statement 3 is Correct. One of the primary laws of reflection states that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection. Consequently, the direction of the incident sound and the direction of the reflected sound make equal angles with the normal to the reflecting surface at the point of incidence.
Key Takeaway:
Sound waves adhere to the universal laws of reflection: the angle of incidence equals the angle of reflection, and the incident wave, reflected wave, and normal all lie in the same plane.