Which one of the following phenomena CANNOT be exhibited by sound waves?

Sound waves are mechanical longitudinal waves that propagate through the compression and rarefaction of a medium [1]. Because the particles in a longitudinal wave oscillate parallel to the direction of wave propagation, they lack the perpendicular vibration component necessary for polarization. Polarization is a phenomenon exclusive to transverse waves, such as light or radio waves, where vibrations occur perpendicular to the direction of travel [2]. While sound waves can undergo reflection (as seen in echoes), refraction (bending due to density changes), interference, and diffraction, they cannot be polarized. Although advanced research explores 'acoustic spin' in specific vector fields, standard sound waves in fluids like air and water are scalar pressure fields that do not exhibit polarization [3]. Therefore, polarization is the only phenomenon among the options that sound waves cannot exhibit.

Sources

1. [1] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 5: Earths Magnetic Field (Geomagnetic Field) > Why Do Sound Waves Travel Faster In A Denser Medium Whereas Light Travels Slower? > p. 64
2. [2] Physical Geography by PMF IAS, Manjunath Thamminidi, PMF IAS (1st ed.) > Chapter 4: Earths Interior > Secondary Waves (S-Waves) > p. 62
3. [3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8291453/