Question
What is the relationship between the electric and magnetic fields of an electromagnetic wave?
Answer Options
- A) They travel at different speeds
- B) They are in parallel
- C) They revolve in opposite directions
- D) They are at right angles
Correct Answer: D
Explanation
A radio wave is an electromagnetic wave, meaning it is composed of an oscillating electric field and an oscillating magnetic field. The fundamental relationship between these two fields is that they are always perpendicular to each other, meaning they are at right angles (90 degrees).
Furthermore, both of these fields are at right angles to the direction the wave is traveling. This is the definition of a transverse electromagnetic wave, and it is how energy is propagated through space.
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