Not a Character of Mechanical Waves

Introduction:
Mechanical waves are waves that require a medium to propagate or travel. These waves are produced when a source of energy causes a vibration to occur within a medium, which is then transported through the medium from one location to another. There are two types of mechanical waves: transverse and longitudinal waves.

Explanation:
The correct answer to the question is option 'D', which states that the speed of mechanical waves is comparatively higher. This statement is not true, as the speed of mechanical waves depends on the properties of the medium through which they are travelling. In fact, the speed of mechanical waves is generally much slower than the speed of electromagnetic waves.

Characteristics of Mechanical Waves:
There are several characteristics of mechanical waves that are important to understand. These include:

1. Propagation depends on the elasticity of the medium:
Mechanical waves are dependent on the elasticity of the medium through which they travel. The more elastic the medium, the faster the wave will travel.

2. Can be both transverse or longitudinal:
Mechanical waves can be either transverse or longitudinal. Transverse waves are waves that move perpendicular to the direction of the wave, while longitudinal waves move parallel to the direction of the wave.

3. Requires a material medium:
Mechanical waves require a material medium in order to propagate. They cannot travel through a vacuum, unlike electromagnetic waves.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, mechanical waves are waves that require a medium to propagate. They are dependent on the elasticity of the medium, can be either transverse or longitudinal, and require a material medium to travel. The speed of mechanical waves is not comparatively higher, as it depends on the properties of the medium through which they are travelling.

Correct answer is option D