Question

Which of the following statement is false for the properties of electromagnetic waves?

• A. Both electric and magnetic field vectors attain the maxima and minima at the same place and same time.
• B. The energy in electromagnetic wave is divided equally between electric and magnetic vectors.
• C. Both electric and magnetic field vectors are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the direction of propagation of wave.
• D. These waves do not require any material medium for propagation

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine which statement is false about the properties of electromagnetic waves, let's evaluate each option based on known properties of electromagnetic waves:

1. Both electric and magnetic field vectors attain the maxima and minima at the same place and same time: This statement is true. In an electromagnetic wave, the electric and magnetic fields oscillate in phase, meaning they reach their maximum and minimum values simultaneously and at the same location.
2. The energy in electromagnetic wave is divided equally between electric and magnetic vectors: This statement is true. In an electromagnetic wave, the energy is indeed equally distributed between the electric field and the magnetic field components.
3. Both electric and magnetic field vectors are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the direction of propagation of wave: This statement is false and is, therefore, the correct answer. In electromagnetic waves, the electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular to each other and also perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. They are not parallel to each other.
4. These waves do not require any material medium for propagation: This statement is true. Electromagnetic waves can propagate through a vacuum and do not require a material medium.

Thus, the false statement is: "Both electric and magnetic field vectors are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the direction of propagation of wave." This is contrary to the actual nature of electromagnetic waves where the fields are perpendicular.