For a certain electromagnetic wave in free space, at one instant the electric field vector points in the +z direction while the magnetic field vector points in the +x direction, as shown in the figure. In what direction is this wave traveling? y E

College Physics
11th Edition
ISBN:9781305952300
Author:Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille
Publisher:Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille
Chapter1: Units, Trigonometry. And Vectors
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1CQ: Estimate the order of magnitude of the length, in meters, of each of the following; (a) a mouse, (b)...
icon
Related questions
Question
**Electromagnetic Wave Direction in Free Space**

**Problem Statement:**

For a certain electromagnetic wave in free space, at one instant the electric field vector points in the +z direction while the magnetic field vector points in the +x direction, as shown in the figure. In what direction is this wave traveling?

**Diagram Explanation:**

The diagram consists of a three-dimensional coordinate system. The axes are labeled as x, y, and z. There are two vectors shown:

- The electric field vector \( \mathbf{E} \) is directed along the +z axis.
- The magnetic field vector \( \mathbf{B} \) is directed along the +x axis.

Given these vectors, you need to determine the direction of wave propagation.

**Answer Options:**

- \( \mathbf{+y} \)
- \( \mathbf{+z} \)
- \( \mathbf{+x} \)
- \( \mathbf{-x} \)
- \( \mathbf{-y} \)

**Analysis:**

Using the right-hand rule, where the thumb points in the direction of the electric field (\( \mathbf{E} \)), the fingers point in the direction of the magnetic field (\( \mathbf{B} \)), the palm will naturally point in the direction of wave propagation. Hence, the wave travels in the +y direction.
Transcribed Image Text:**Electromagnetic Wave Direction in Free Space** **Problem Statement:** For a certain electromagnetic wave in free space, at one instant the electric field vector points in the +z direction while the magnetic field vector points in the +x direction, as shown in the figure. In what direction is this wave traveling? **Diagram Explanation:** The diagram consists of a three-dimensional coordinate system. The axes are labeled as x, y, and z. There are two vectors shown: - The electric field vector \( \mathbf{E} \) is directed along the +z axis. - The magnetic field vector \( \mathbf{B} \) is directed along the +x axis. Given these vectors, you need to determine the direction of wave propagation. **Answer Options:** - \( \mathbf{+y} \) - \( \mathbf{+z} \) - \( \mathbf{+x} \) - \( \mathbf{-x} \) - \( \mathbf{-y} \) **Analysis:** Using the right-hand rule, where the thumb points in the direction of the electric field (\( \mathbf{E} \)), the fingers point in the direction of the magnetic field (\( \mathbf{B} \)), the palm will naturally point in the direction of wave propagation. Hence, the wave travels in the +y direction.
Expert Solution
trending now

Trending now

This is a popular solution!

steps

Step by step

Solved in 2 steps with 2 images

Blurred answer
Knowledge Booster
Maxwell Equation
Learn more about
Need a deep-dive on the concept behind this application? Look no further. Learn more about this topic, physics and related others by exploring similar questions and additional content below.
Similar questions
  • SEE MORE QUESTIONS
Recommended textbooks for you
College Physics
College Physics
Physics
ISBN:
9781305952300
Author:
Raymond A. Serway, Chris Vuille
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
University Physics (14th Edition)
University Physics (14th Edition)
Physics
ISBN:
9780133969290
Author:
Hugh D. Young, Roger A. Freedman
Publisher:
PEARSON
Introduction To Quantum Mechanics
Introduction To Quantum Mechanics
Physics
ISBN:
9781107189638
Author:
Griffiths, David J., Schroeter, Darrell F.
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press
Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Physics for Scientists and Engineers
Physics
ISBN:
9781337553278
Author:
Raymond A. Serway, John W. Jewett
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
Lecture- Tutorials for Introductory Astronomy
Lecture- Tutorials for Introductory Astronomy
Physics
ISBN:
9780321820464
Author:
Edward E. Prather, Tim P. Slater, Jeff P. Adams, Gina Brissenden
Publisher:
Addison-Wesley
College Physics: A Strategic Approach (4th Editio…
College Physics: A Strategic Approach (4th Editio…
Physics
ISBN:
9780134609034
Author:
Randall D. Knight (Professor Emeritus), Brian Jones, Stuart Field
Publisher:
PEARSON