Question

Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given.
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 delivers both momentum and energy on a material surface due to its particle-like nature (photons).

The photon in motion has some momentum and it delivers it to the material as it strikes it.

$p=mv$ (A photon moving at speed of light has a relative mass)

The energy associated with the wave is also transferred to the material.

They are related as
$E=h\nu$

Option $\left(C\right)$ is correct.