Question
In what direction does an electromagnetic wave travel?
Answer Options
- A) It depends on the phase angle of the magnetic field
- B) It travels parallel to the electric and magnetic fields
- C) It depends on the phase angle of the electric field
- D) It travels at a right angle to the electric and magnetic fields
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
An electromagnetic wave, such as a radio signal, is fundamentally composed of two mutually orthogonal (perpendicular) components: an electric field and a magnetic field. These two fields oscillate together and sustain each other as they propagate through space. The direction in which the wave travels is directly determined by the orientation of these two fields.
The wave propagates in a direction that is perpendicular to the plane formed by the electric and magnetic fields. Therefore, an electromagnetic wave always travels at a right angle (90 degrees) to the electric and magnetic fields. This relationship is a core concept of Maxwell’s equations and forms the basis for how antennas launch and receive radio waves.
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