Question

IN which of the following media the wave propagation occurs with out attenuation? (A) Conductor (B) perfect dielectric medium (C) Semi conductor (D) None of the above

Short answer

The correct answer is (B) perfect dielectric medium, as it allows wave propagation without attenuation. This is because a perfect dielectric medium is an insulating material with no free electrons or any other charge carriers, preventing energy absorption and ensuring no attenuation occurs during wave propagation.

Step-by-step solution

Option A: Conductor

In a conductor, such as metals, the free electrons present in the material cause energy loss and consequently attenuation in the propagated wave. The energy of the wave is absorbed by the electrons, which in turn transfer the energy to the conductor in the form of heat. Therefore, waves cannot propagate without attenuation in a conductor.

Option B: Perfect Dielectric Medium

A perfect dielectric medium is an insulating material that does not have any free electrons or any other charge carriers. This means that there is no energy absorbed by the medium, and as a result, the wave can propagate through the medium without attenuation. Therefore, wave propagation without attenuation can occur in a perfect dielectric medium.

Option C: Semiconductor

In a semiconductor, there are both free electrons and holes (absence of electrons) that contribute to the conduction process. When a wave propagates through this medium, the free electrons and holes can absorb the energy from the wave, causing attenuation. Thus, a semiconductor does not allow wave propagation without attenuation.

Option D: None of the above

We have already determined that wave propagation without attenuation can occur in a perfect dielectric medium, so this option is false. In conclusion, the correct answer is (B) perfect dielectric medium, as it allows wave propagation without attenuation.