Question
Physics Question on Electromagnetic waves
For a plane electromagnetic wave propagating in x-direction, which one of the following combination gives the correct possible directions for electric field (E) and magnetic field (B) respectively?
A
j^+k^,j^+k^
B
−j^+k^,−j^−k^
C
j^+k^,−j^−k^
D
−j^+k^,−j^+k^
Answer
−j^+k^,−j^−k^
Explanation
Solution
(E×B) gives the direction of propagation
E=−j^+k^,B=−j^−k^
E×B=i^ 0 0j^−1−1k^1−1=2i^
Also E⋅B=(−j^+k^)(−j^−k^)=0