Question

Answer briefly.

State two characteristics of an EM wave.

Answer 1

1. The electric and magnetic fields, `vec"E"`  and `vec"B"` are always perpendicular to each other and also to the direction of propagation of the EM wave. Thus, the EM waves are transverse waves.
2. The cross product `(vec"E"xxvec"B")` gives the direction in which the EM wave travels. `(vec"E"xxvec"B")` also gives the energy carried by EM wave.
3. The `vec"E"` and `vec"B"` fields vary sinusoidally and are in phase.
4. EM waves are produced by accelerated electric charges.
5. EM waves can travel through free space as well as through solids, liquids, and gases.