Question

An electromagnetic wave has

• A. Electric vector only
• B. Magnetic vector only
• C. Electric and magnetic vectors perpendicular to each other
• D. Neither the electric vector nor the magnetic vector

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Electric and magnetic vectors perpendicular to each other

The explanation for the correct answer:

(C) Electric and magnetic vectors perpendicular to each other.

In an electromagnetic wave, the time-varying electric and magnetic fields are mutually perpendicular to each other and also perpendicular to the direction of the propagation of this wave.

The explanation for the incorrect answer:

(A) Electric vector only

Light is an electromagnetic wave. Electric and magnetic fields oscillate at some characteristic frequency while traveling at the speed of light. These fields have a magnitude, phase, and direction.

(B)Magnetic vector only

In classical electromagnetism, magnetic vector potential (often called $A$) is the vector quantity defined so that its curl is equal to the magnetic field. Together with the electric potential $\phi$, the magnetic vector potential can be used to specify the electric field$E$ as well

(D) Neither the electric vector nor the magnetic vector

Electric and magnetic vectors are perpendicular to each other.

Hence, option (c) is correct.