What are gravitational waves?

Gravitational waves are indeed best described as ripples in spacetime. They are generated by accelerating masses, such as two orbiting black holes or neutron stars, which create disturbances in the fabric of spacetime itself. This phenomenon was first predicted by Albert Einstein in 1916 based on his general theory of relativity. When these massive objects move, they cause the surrounding spacetime to stretch and compress, similar to how dropping a stone in a pond creates waves on the water surface.

The detection of gravitational waves provides significant insights into some of the most energetic and violent events in the universe, such as black hole mergers and supernovae. These waves travel at the speed of light and can be detected by sensitive instruments like LIGO (Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory), leading to groundbreaking advancements in astrophysics.

In this context, the other options do not accurately describe gravitational waves. Particles emitted during solar flares relate to solar physics rather than gravitational phenomena. Light waves emitted by distant stars pertain to electromagnetic radiation, and sound waves cannot propagate in the vacuum of space since they require a medium to travel through. Therefore, the understanding of gravitational waves as ripples in spacetime is fundamental to modern physics and cosmology