Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement I: Electromagnetic waves carry energy as they travel through space and this energy is equally shared by the electric and magnetic fields.
Statement II: When electromagnetic waves strike a surface, a pressure is exerted on the surface. In the light of the above statements.
Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
• B. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct.
• C. Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect.
• D. Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Both Statement I and Statement II are correct.

Answer 2

Electromagnetic waves indeed carry energy as they propagate through space. This energy is equally divided between the electric and magnetic field components of the wave. Therefore, Statement I is correct.

When electromagnetic waves hit a surface, they exert radiation pressure on it due to the transfer of momentum. This pressure is proportional to the wave’s intensity. Therefore, Statement II is also correct.

Thus, both statements are correct, so the answer is:

Both Statement I and Statement II are correct.