Question

question 19 of 28
an electromagnetic wave moves through electric and magnetic fields. how might the movement of the wave be described?
a. the wave moves through the fields in a random motion.
b. the wave moves back and forth through the fields.
c. the vibrations of the fields are parallel to the direction in which the wave moves.
d. the vibrations of the fields are perpendicular to the direction in which the wave moves.

Explanation:

Electromagnetic waves are transverse waves. In a transverse wave, the vibrations of the particles (in this case, the electric and magnetic fields) are perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.

• Option A: Incorrect. It doesn't specify the relationship between wave motion and field vibrations.
• Option B: Incorrect. Electromagnetic wave propagation is not random.
• Option C: Incorrect. This describes a longitudinal wave (e.g., sound wave in air where particle vibrations are parallel to wave direction), but electromagnetic waves are not longitudinal.
• Option D: Correct. As electromagnetic waves are transverse, the vibrations of the electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular to the direction of wave motion.

Answer:

D. The vibrations of the fields are perpendicular to the direction in which the wave moves.