Moderate

An electromagnetic wave consists of _____________________?

Correct answer: D. Electric and magnetic fields moving perpendicular to each other

  • A. Electric and magnetic fields moving parallel to each other
  • B. Magnetic field moving with velocity of light in space
  • C. Electric field moving with velocity of light
  • D. Electric and magnetic fields moving perpendicular to each other

Explanation

An electromagnetic wave contains oscillating electric and magnetic fields that are perpendicular to each other and to the direction of travel. Therefore option d gives the essential relationship between the two fields. The likely wrong choice is a, which incorrectly makes the electric and magnetic fields parallel.

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About Electromagnetic Waves

Electromagnetic waves consist of mutually perpendicular, oscillating electric and magnetic fields that also remain perpendicular to the direction of propagation. They travel through vacuum at the speed of light and include radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible, ultraviolet, X-rays and gamma rays. Unlike mechanical waves, they do not require a material medium.

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