Question

An electromagnetic wave (A) can be deflected by electric field (B) can be deflected by magnetic field (C) can be deflected by both electric and magnetic field (D) none of these

Short answer

Since an electromagnetic wave is composed of oscillating electric and magnetic fields, it doesn't carry a net charge and won't be deflected or affected by an electric field. Similarly, a static magnetic field will have no net effect on the wave. Therefore, the correct answer is (D) none of these.

Step-by-step solution

Understand electromagnetic waves

Electromagnetic waves are oscillations of electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space. These waves are produced by the motion of charged particles and are characterized by their frequency or wavelength. Examples of electromagnetic waves include light, radio waves, X-rays, and infrared waves.

Recall the behavior of electric fields and magnetic fields

Electric fields are generated by charged particles and can interact with charged particles, causing them to experience a force. A magnetic field, on the other hand, can influence moving charged particles, and its effect depends on the velocity of the charged particle relative to the magnetic field.

Analyze the interaction between electromagnetic waves and electric/magnetic fields

Since an electromagnetic wave is composed of oscillating electric and magnetic fields, it doesn't carry a net charge. As a result, it won't be deflected or affected by an electric field. Similarly, since the magnetic field components in an electromagnetic wave oscillate, a static magnetic field will have no net effect on the wave.

Select the correct answer

Based on our understanding of electromagnetic waves and their interactions with electric and magnetic fields, the correct answer is: (D) none of these