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What type of sound wave is used for ultrasonic testing in both solids and liquids?

  1. Surface wave

  2. Shear wave

  3. Longitudinal/compression wave

  4. Rayleigh wave

The correct answer is: Longitudinal/compression wave

Ultrasonic testing employs longitudinal or compression waves to inspect materials, both in solid and liquid states. These waves consist of particle movement that occurs parallel to the direction of wave propagation. This characteristic allows them to effectively penetrate various materials, facilitating the detection of flaws, inconsistencies, and material properties. In solid materials, longitudinal waves can travel through the entirety of the medium, making them suitable for detecting internal defects such as cracks or voids. In liquids, these waves are also effective, allowing for evaluations of material integrity without physical alteration to the substance being tested. This makes longitudinal/compression waves the preferred choice in ultrasonic testing applications, as they provide reliable and consistent results in identifying potential issues across a broad range of materials.