Question

Electromagnetic wave is produced by oscillating electric and magnetic fields \(E^{-}\) and \(B^{-}\). Choose only the incorrect statement from the following (A) \(\mathrm{E}^{-}\) is perpendicular to \(\mathrm{B}^{-}\). (B) \(E^{-}\) is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave (C) \(\mathrm{B}^{-}\) is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave (D) \(E^{-}\) is parallel to \(\mathrm{B}^{-}\)

Short answer

The incorrect statement is (D) \(E^-\) is parallel to \(B^-\), as electric and magnetic fields in electromagnetic waves are always perpendicular to each other, not parallel.

Step-by-step solution

Statement A

\(E^- \) is perpendicular to \(B^-\). This statement is true as electric and magnetic fields in electromagnetic waves are always perpendicular to each other. They both oscillate at right angles to one another.

Statement B

\(E^-\) is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave. This statement is also true. The electric field oscillates at a right angle to the direction of the wave's propagation.

Statement C

\(B^-\) is perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave. This statement is correct as well. The magnetic field also oscillates at a right angle to the direction of the wave's propagation.

Statement D

\(E^-\) is parallel to \(B^-\). This statement is false. As mentioned earlier, the electric and magnetic fields in electromagnetic waves are always perpendicular to each other, not parallel. Thus, the incorrect statement is (D) \(E^-\) is parallel to \(B^-\).