Question

A plane electromagnetic wave is incident on a material surface. If the wave delivers momentum $p$ and energy $E$, then:

• A. $p=0$, $E=0$
• B. $p\ne 0$, $E\ne 0$
• C. $p\ne 0$, $E=0$
• D. $p=0$, $E\ne 0$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $p\ne 0$, $E\ne 0$

An electromagnetic wave has both energy and momentum.