A wave is a disturbance that carries energy through space. Which of these characterizes the fundamental difference between mechanical waves and electromagnetic waves

Mechanical waves and electromagnetic waves are the types of waves we have. The major difference between this type of waves is that, while mechanical waves requires material medium for its propagation, electromagnetic waves does not require material medium for its propagation.

Example of mechanical waves are waves produced by a ripple tank.

Example of an electromagnetic waves are the electromagnetic spectrum which includes radio waves, infrared waves, visible light, ultraviolet rays etc ... This waves are produced naturally without any medium compare to mechanical wave.

Electromagnetic waves are waves that have no medium to travel or propagate whilr mechanical waves need a medium for its transmission or propagation.

Electromagnetic wave can travel in a vacuum whereas mechanical waves do not. These media are water, air etc. Examples of electromagnetic waves include light, radio signals etc.