Question

A plane electromagnetic wave is incident on a material surface. The wave delivers momentum $p$ and energy $E.$

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

Answer 1

The correct option is C $p\ne 0,E\ne 0.$

An electromagnetic wave has both energy and momentum.
That is why electromagnetic waves exerts radiation pressure on the surface of object, on which it falls.

Therefore, $p\ne 0,E\ne 0$

Hence, option $\left(C\right)$ is the correct answer.