Question

Which of these mechanisms can be used to produce electromagnetic waves?

Options

• stationary point charge

• point charge oscillating in simple harmonic motion

• point charge drifting slowly

• point charge traveling in a straight line with constant velocity

Answer 1

Point charge oscillating in simple harmonic motion.

Explanation:

In its immediate vicinity, this charge generates an oscillating electric field. In turn, this field causes an oscillating magnetic field in its immediate vicinity. As both areas operate as sources for each other, the process continues. As a result, the oscillating charge generates an em wave.

Note: The frequency of an em wave is the same as that of an oscillating charge.