Question:medium

Solar radiation is

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Solar radiation is
Updated On: Jun 21, 2026
  • transverse electromagnetic wave
  • longitudinal electromagnetic wave
  • stationary wave
  • None of the above
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Solar radiation is a form of electromagnetic energy emitted by the sun. Understanding the nature of solar radiation requires knowledge of the characteristics of electromagnetic waves.

Electromagnetic waves are waves that consist of electric and magnetic fields oscillating perpendicular to each other and to the direction of wave propagation. These waves do not require any medium to travel through and can propagate through the vacuum of space.

  • Transverse Electromagnetic Wave: In these waves, the oscillations of the electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular to the direction of wave travel. Solar radiation is categorized under this type as the electric and magnetic fields oscillate perpendicular to the direction of energy propagation.
  • Longitudinal Electromagnetic Wave: These waves have oscillations in the direction of wave propagation. Examples include sound waves in a medium. However, electromagnetic waves, including solar radiation, do not belong to this category.
  • Stationary Wave: These are waves that remain confined to a particular region with nodes and antinodes, typically arising from the interference of two waves moving in opposite directions. These do not apply to solar radiation.

Based on the above explanation, the correct answer is that solar radiation is a transverse electromagnetic wave. This option aligns with the properties of electromagnetic waves that are inherently transverse.

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