Chapter 26, Problem 33A

To determine

To Find: The consequences to produce an electromagnetic wave by an electron.

Answer to Problem 33A

Electromagnetic waves are generated by moving electrons.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

An electromagnetic wave is also known as an EM wave. Electromagnetic waves may also be said to be the composition of oscillating electrical and magnetic fields. It consists of both electric and magnetic fields. There is a sinusoidal graph displaying the electromagnetic waves. It consists of time-varying electrical and magnetic fields perpendicular to each other, and also perpendicular to wave propagation direction. Electromagnetic waves are transverse waves and the speed of EM wave in a vacuum is $3\times {10}^8\text{m/s}$ .

Electromagnetic radiation is a kind of energy. The generation of electromagnetic waves is by traveling electrons. The electron generates an electric field that we can imagine as electron radiating lines. When an electron moves (back and forth), then the motion will become wavy. Again, the movement of electrons generates a magnetic field and it will also become wavy. Both electric and magnetic fields reinforce one another and thus, EM wave will be produced.

Conclusion:

Hence, electromagnetic waves are generated by moving electrons.