Class 12th Physics Chapter 8 Study Material
Class 12th Physics Chapter 8 Study Material
8.ELECTROMAGNETIC
WAVES
1
Physics Smart Booklet
2
Physics Smart Booklet
Electromagnetic Waves
Electric and magnetic phenomena are not totally independent, but are related to each other. By the middle of the
nineteenth century, several empirical laws of electricity and magnetism had been established. However, there was no
convincing theoretical explanation for these phenomena. A comprehensive theory which could explain all the electric
and magnetic phenomena was developed by James Clerk Maxwell around 1872. This theory is referred to as the
‘electromagnetic theory’. Maxwell unified not only the apparently distinct theories on electricity and magnetism but
also showed that light is electromagnetic in nature.
Maxwell’s equations
q
1. E dS = 0
: Gauss’ law in electrostatics
4. E dl = (I
0 c + Id ) : Ampere-Maxwell law.
Displacement current
dE
The term Id in the fourth equation is called displacement current. Id = 0
dt
dV
Displacement current through a charging capacitor, Id = C
dt
Electromagnetic waves
Electromagnetic waves consists of oscillating electric and magnetic fields. These fields oscillate in perpendicular directions,
perpendicular to the direction of propagation. In a plane electromagnetic wave, travelling along z direction the oscillations
of the electric and magnetic fields are represented as
E x = E 0 sin(K z − t)
By = B0 sin(K z − t)
2 1 E
Here k = ; = 2f ; = c , the speed of propagation of the waves. It can be shown that c = . Also c = 0
K 0 0 B0
1 1 2
(a) The intensity of electromagnetic wave is given by I = 0 E 02 c = B0 c
2 20
1 1 2
(b) The average energy density of electromagnetic wave is given by Uav = 0 E02 = B0
2 20
I
(c) The momentum transferred by an electromagnetic wave on t an absorbing surface is given by p = .
c
Properties of electromagnetic wave
Z
Electromagnetic wave
3
Physics Smart Booklet
1. Electromagnetic waves propagate in the form of time varying electric and magnetic fields such that the two
fields are perpendicular to each other and also to the direction of propagation of the waves (Figure). In other
words, electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature.
2. Electromagnetic waves are produced by accelerated charges
3. Electromagnetic waves travel in free space (or vacuum) with a speed c given by
1
c= = 3 108 ms −1 … (1)
0 0
0 and 0 being the permeability and permittivity of free space which have values 4 × 10–7 H m–1 and
8.85 10–12 F m–1. The electromagnetic waves travel in a material medium of absolute permittivity and
1
absolute permeability with a speed v given by v = … (2)
4. Electromagnetic waves do not need any material medium for their propagation.
5. The ratio of the amplitudes of electric and magnetic fields is always a constant and it is equal to the velocity
of electromagnetic waves.
E0
Mathematically, =c … (3)
B0
6. The energy of electromagnetic waves is equally divided between the electric and magnetic field vectors.
7. The direction of flow of electromagnetic wave is given by the direction of a vector, called Poynting’s vector
EB
(S) . The magnitude of S gives the amount of energy flowing normally across unit area S =
0
Electromagnetic spectrum
The orderly distribution of electromagnetic waves (according to wavelength or frequency) in the form of
distinct groups, having widely different properties, is called electromagnetic spectrum. The spectrum of
electromagnetic radiation has a wide range of wavelengths from radio-waves at one end to -rays at the
other end. The spectrum from about 400 nm to 700 nm which is sensitive to human eye is called the visible
spectrum. The spectrum is divided into various regions depending on the effects produced by them. A
sequence of regions in the decreasing order of wavelengths is; radio waves, microwaves, infra-red rays,
visible light, ultraviolet rays, X-rays and -rays.
Table below gives details about the frequency range, mode of production and use of different types of
electromagnetic waves in the order of decreasing wavelength.
4
Physics Smart Booklet
Electromagnetic spectrum
Name Frequency range (Hz) Mode of production Uses
1 Radio waves 3 × 104 to 3 × 109 By accelerated motion of Radio and TV communication,
charges in conducting wires cellular phones in the UHF band
2. Micro waves 3 × 109 to 3 × 1011 Klystrons tubes, Magnetron Radar systems, Microwave
tubes ovens
3. Infrared waves 3 × 1011 to 4 × 1014 Hot bodies and molecules Infrared lamps for physical
therapy, For weather forecasting,
to study the molecular structure
and to check purity of the
chemical samples, IR
photography
4. Visible light 4 × 1014 to 8 × 1014 Emitted or reflected from Information about the world
objects around us around us
5. UV rays 8 × 1014 to 5 × 1017 Spectral lamps and very hot Molecular structure studies
bodies through UV spectra, Burglar
alarm, to preserve food stuff
6. X-rays 5 × 1017 to 3 × 1021 By bombarding a metal target In medical applications, surgery,
by high energy electrons Radio therapy, industry and
scientific research
7. -rays Above 3 × 1018 to 5 up Nuclear reactions and Treatment of cancer and
to 1023 Radioactive nuclei tumours, preservation of food, in
nuclear reactions, structure of
atomic nucleus
Illustrations
1. One requires 11 eV of energy to dissociate a carbon monoxide molecule into carbon and oxygen atoms. The minimum
frequency of the appropriate electromagnetic radiation to achieve the dissociation lies in
(A) Visible region. (B) Infrared region.
(C) Ultraviolet region. (D) Microwave region.
Ans (C
hc 1242
E (in eV) =
e (nm)
1242
(in nm) = 113 nm
11
3 108
Frequency, = = 2.65 1015 Hz
1.13 10−7
This lies in ultraviolet region
2. A linearly polarized electromagnetic wave given as E = E 0 i cos(kz − t) is incident normally on a perfectly reflecting
infinite wall at z = a. Assuming that the material of the wall is optically inactive, the reflected wave will be given as
(A) E r = −E 0 i cos(kz − t) (B) E r = E 0 i cos(kz + t)
(C) E r = −E 0 i cos(kz + t) (D) E r = E o isin(kz − t)
Ans (B)
5
Physics Smart Booklet
The material is optically inactive. Thus, there is no rotation of the plane of polarization.
Since angle of incidence = 0. Angle of reflection = 0
Thus, reflected wave will be along the normal, in opposite direction to that of the incident wave.
For the reflected wave, z = – z, z = −z
There will be a phase change of , when the wave is reflected from a denser medium. But this does not change the
type of wave.
Incident electromagnetic wave is E = E 0 i cos(kz − t)
Reflected electromagnetic wave is E r = E o (−i) cos[(−kz − t) + ] = E o i cos[(kz + t)
3. Light with an energy flux of 20 W cm–2 falls on a non-reflecting surface at normal incidence. If the surface has an
area of 30 cm2, the total momentum delivered (for complete absorption) during 30 min is
(A) 36 × 10–5 kg m s–1 (B) 36 × 10–4 kg m s–1 (C) 108 × 104 kg s–1 (D) 1.08 × 107 kg m s–1
Ans (B)
Energy flux = = 20 W cm–2 = 20 × 104 Wm–
Area, A = 30 cm2 = 30 × 10–4 m–2
Time, t = 30 minutes = 30 × 60 s
Total energy falling on the surface in a time t is
U = At = 20 104 30 10−4 30 60 = 1.08 106 J
Momentum of the incident light
U 1.08 106
= = = 36 10−4 kg ms −1
c 3 108
Momentum of the reflected light = 0
Momentum transferred to the surface
= 36 × 10–4 – 0 = 36 × 10–4 kg m s–1
4. The electric field intensity produced by the radiations coming from 100 W bulb at 3 m distance is E. The electric
field intensity produced by the radiations coming from 50 W bulb at the same distance is
E E
(A) (B) 2E (C) (D) 2E
2 2
Ans (C)
P
I= Also I = c0E2
4r 2
E2 P
E 22 P2 50 1
2
= = ;
E1 P1 100 2
E
E2 = 1
2
5. If E and B represent electric and magnetic field vectors of the electromagnetic wave, the direction of propagation
of electromagnetic wave is along.
(A) E (B) B (C) B E (D) E B
Ans (D)
The direction of propagation of an EM wave is perpendicular to both electric field vector E and magnetic field vector
B . It is in the direction of E B .
6. The ratio of contributions made by the electric field and magnetic field components to the intensity of an EM wave
is
(A) c : 1 (B) c2 : 1 (C) 1 : 1 (D) c :1
Ans (C)
6
Physics Smart Booklet
1
Intensity of EM wave; I = U av c . We have, Uav = 0E02
2
E 1 1 1
c = 0 , (U av ) elec.field = 0 ( cB0 ) = 0
2
B0 2 2 00
Since,
1 B02 1
B02 = c=
2 0 0 0
1 B02
We know that ( U av )mag.field =
2 0
Thus, the energy in an electromagnetic wave is divided equally between electric field vector and magnetic field
vector.
7. An EM wave radiates outwards from a dipole antenna, with E0 as the amplitude of its electric field vector. The electric
field E0 which transports significant energy from the source falls off as
1 1 1
(A) 3 (B) 2 (C) (D) remains constant.
r r r
Ans (C)
The electromagnetic waves are radiated outwards from a dipole antenna. The amplitude of electric field
E0 varies inversely as the distance from the antenna
1
i.e. E 0 .
r
8. A plane electromagnetic wave propagating along x-direction can have the following pairs of E and B
(A) Ex, By (B) Ey, Bz (C) Bx, Ey (D) Ez, Bx
Ans (B)
In an electromagnetic wave E and B are perpendicular to each other and also perpendicular to the direction of
propagation.
In a electromagnetic wave propagating along x–direction, a possible pair is E y , Bz .
9. A charged particle oscillates about its mean equilibrium position with a frequency of 10 9 Hz. The electromagnetic
waves produced:
(A) will have frequency of 2 × 109 Hz. (B) will have speed of 30 ms–1
(C) will have a wavelength of 0.3 m. (D) fall in the region of infrared waves.
Ans (C)
c 3 108
= 109 Hz = = = 0.3m ; lies in microwave region.
109
10. The source of electromagnetic waves can be a charge
(A) moving with a constant velocity (B) moving in a circular orbit
(C) at rest (D) in an electric field
Ans (B)
An electromagnetic wave can be produced by an accelerated or an oscillating charge. In option (B), the charge will
be in accelerated motion.
11. At every instant the ratio of the magnitude of the electric field to the magnetic field in an electromagnetic wave in
vacuum is equal to
(A) the speed of radiowaves (B) the speed of -rays
(C) the speed of light (D) all of the above
Ans (D)
E
c = = Speed of an electromagnetic wave in vacuum
B
12. A parallel plate capacitor consists of two circular plates each of radius 10 cm and separated by 5 mm. By an external
7
Physics Smart Booklet
source the capacitor is being charged. The charging current is 0.1 A. The rate of change of potential difference
between the plates is nearly
(A) 3.6 × 108 Vs−1 (B) 3.6 × 109 Vs−1
(C) 1.8 × 108 Vs−1 (D) 1.8 × 109 Vs−1
Ans (D)
dQ dV dV
Q = CV =C I=C
dt dt dt
dV I I Id
= = =
dt C ( 0 A / d ) 0 A
0.1 5 10−3
= = 1.8 109 Vs−1
8.85 10−12 3.14 (10 10−2 )2
13. The potential difference between the plates of a parallel plate capacitor of capacitance 5 F varies at the rate of 300
kVs−1. The displacement current between the plate is
(A) 1 A (B) 0.6 A (C) 1.66 A (D) 1.5 A
Ans (D)
dV
C = 5 F, = 300 kVs−1 = 3 105 Vs−1 , Q = CV
dt
dQ dV
Id = =C = 5 10−6 3 105 = 1.5 A
dt dt
14. *The force exerted by sun light of intensity 1350 Wm−2 reflected from a reflecting surface of an aluminum sheet of
area 104 m2 is
(A) 0.72 N (B) 0.09 N (C) 45 N (D) 0.18 N
Ans (B)
2I 2 1350
Radiation pressure on reflecting surface is P = = Nm−2
c 3 108
Total force on the surface = PA
2 1.35 103
= 104 = 9 × 10−2 N
3 10 8
15. The electromagnetic energy contained in cubic meter near the earth’s surface is (given intensity of sunlight under
clear sky is 103 W m−2)
(A) 3.3 × 10−6 J (B) 3.3 J (C) 3 × 10−3 J (D) 3.0 × 10−5 J
Ans (A)
Intensity = energy (E) contained in a cylinder of unit area of cross section and length equal to the distance travelled
by light in vacuum in 1 second (i.e., volume (1 × c) m3).
Intensity
Energy per unit volume =
velocity of light
1000 1
= = 10−5 = 3.3 10−6 J
3 108 3
16. The maximum radiation pressure exerted by sunlight outside earth’s atmosphere on a black flat surface is (solar
constant = 1350 Wm−2)
(A) 2.25 × 10−5 Pa (B) 0.06 Pa (C) 0.09 Pa (D) 4.5 × 10−6 Pa
Ans (D)
I 1350
Radiation pressure on the black surface is P = = = 4.5 10−6 Pa
c 3 108
17. The magnetic field of a plane polarized electromagnetic wave moving along z-direction is given by
z t 107
B = 1.2 10−6 sin 2 − tesla . The maximum electric field is
240 8
8
Physics Smart Booklet
(A) 1000 V m−1 (B) 180 V m−1 (C) 360 V m−1 (D) 0.40 V m−1
Ans (C)
Electric field Emax = Bmax c = 1.2 10−6 3 108 = 360 Vm−1
18. A solar cell has a light gathering area of 10 cm2 and produces 0.2 A at 0.8 V (DC) when illuminated with sunlight of
intensity 1000 Wm−2. The efficiency of the solar cell is
(A) 8% (B) 16% (C) 23% (D) 32%
Ans (B)
Power generated, P = VI = 0.8 × 0.2 = 0.16 W.
Power incident on the solar cell is P0 = 1000 10 10−4 = 1 W
P 0.16
Efficiency = 100 = 100 = 16%
P0 1
19. The amplitude of electric field in an electromagnetic wave is 10 V m −1. The frequency of wave is
5 × 1014 Hz. The wave is propagating along z-axis. The average energy density of electric field is
(A) 2.21 × 10–10 J m−3 (B) 4.21 × 10–10 J m−3
(C) 3.21 × 10–10 J m−3 (D) 1.21 × 10–10 J m−3
Ans (A)
Here, E0 = 10 Vm–1
Average energy density due to electric field is
2
1 1 E
u E = 0 E rms
2
= 0 0
2 2 2
1 1
= 0 E 02 = (8.85 10−12 ) (10) 2
4 4
= 2.2110−10 J m−3
20. The amplitude of electric field in an electromagnetic wave is 10 V m−1. The frequency of wave is
5 × 1014 Hz. The wave is propagating along z-axis. The average energy density of magnetic field is
(A) 3.21 × 10–10 J m−3 (B) 2.21 × 10–10 J m−3
(C) 1.21 × 10–10 J m−3 (D) 4.21 × 10–10 J m−3
Ans (B)
Here, E0 = 10 V m–1; = 5 × 1014 Hz.
2
1 Brms 1 B0
Average energy density of magnetic field is u B = =
2 0 20 2
1 B02 1 (E 0 / c) 2 1 E 02
= =
4 0 4 0 40 (1/ 00 )
1
= 0 E02 = u E = 2.2110−10 J m−3
4
Alternately, the average density is the same for electric and magnetic field.
9
Physics Smart Booklet
Each of the following questions consists of a Statement−I and a Statement−II. Examine both of them and select one
of the options using the following codes:
(A) Statement-I and Statement-II are true and Statement-II is the correct explanation of Statement-I.
(B) Statement-I and Statement-II are true, but Statement-II is not the correct explanation of Statement -I
(C) Statement-I is true, but Statement -II is false
(D) Statement-I is false, but Statement -II is true
21. Statement I: Gauss’ law in magnetism, suggests that no magnetic monopole exists.
Statement II: Gauss’ law in magnetism states that B dA = 0.
Ans (A)
22. Statement I: Induced electric fields are produced by time varying magnetic field.
d
Statement II: According to Faraday’s law E dl = − B
dt
Ans (A)
23. Statement I: When a capacitor is getting charged the conduction current in the connecting wires at any instant is
equal to the displacement current in between the capacitor plates.
Statement II: Conduction current is always greater than the displacement current
Ans (C)
24. Statement I: Charges at rest or uniform motion generate electromagnetic waves.
Statement II: Accelerated charges radiate electromagnetic waves.
Ans (D)
25. Statement I: In an electromagnetic wave, the energy density of the electric field is equal to the energy density of the
magnetic field.
Statement II: In an electromagnetic wave, the energy density of the electric field is greater than the energy density
of the magnetic field.
Ans (C)
26. Statement I: The tails of comets are always oriented in a direction away from sun.
Statement II: Electromagnetic waves exert pressure.
Ans (A)
27. Statement I: In an electromagnetic wave traveling along x-direction the electric field vibrates along the y-direction
and the magnetic field vibrates along the z-direction.
Statement II: In an electromagnetic wave traveling along x-direction the magnetic field vibrates along the y-
direction and the electric field vibrates along the z-direction.
Ans (C)
28. Statement I: The radiation force on an absorbing surface is twice that on a reflecting surface.
Statement II: The radiation force on a reflecting surface is twice that on an absorbing surface.
Ans (D)
29. Statement I: A light beam or a radio beam of same intensity will have same values of E and B
Statement II: A light beam or a radio beam of same intensity will have different values of E and B
Ans (C)
30. Statement I: UV rays are used for sterilizing surgical instruments in hospitals.
Statement II:IR rays are used for sterilizing surgical instruments in hospitals
Ans (C)
10
Physics Smart Booklet
5. Cellular phones use radio waves to transmit voice communication in [NCERT Pg. 281]
(1) Frequency modulated radio bands (2) Ultra high frequency bands
(3) Short wave bands (4) Amplitude modulated bands
6. Which of the following is not an electromagnetic wave? [NCERT Pg. 283]
(1) Heat rays (2) X-rays (3) -rays (4) -rays
7. Which among the following statement is incorrect? (NCERT Pg. 283)
(1) Wavelength of X-rays can range from l0 nm to l0–4 nm.
(2) X-rays are used in treatment of certain form of cancer
(3) X-rays are produced by bombarding a metal target by high energy electrons
(4) X-rays are used to observe growth of crops
8. Which among the following statement may be incorrect? [NCERT Pg. 282]
(1) Infrared detectors are used in earth satellites
(2) Electronic devices emit infrared radiations and are used in remote switches
(3) U.V. lamps are used in physical therapy
(4) Visible range of many insects extend well into ultraviolet waves
9. The instantaneous magnitudes of electric field E and magnetic field B vectors in electromagnetic
wave propagating in vacuum are related as [NCERT Pg. 276]
c B
1) E = 2) E = cB 3) E = 4) EB = c2
B c
10. A plane electromagnetic wave E = 100 sin (5 108 t + 3x) V/m is propagating through
a medium. The refractive index of the medium is [NCERT Pg.276]
(1) 1.6 (2) 1.7 (3) 1.8 (4) 1.9
11. Light with energy flux 1.2 W/m2 falls on a non-reflecting surface at normal incidence. The
pressure on the plate is [NCERT Pg.279 ]
11
Physics Smart Booklet
(1) 3 10−8 Nm −2 (2) 2 10 −8 Nm −2 (3) 4 10 −9 Nm −2 (4) 2 10 −9 Nm −2
12. What is peak electric field produced by the radiations coming from 100 W bulb at a distance 3
m. Assuming that bulb is point source with efficiency of 2.5%? [NCERT Pg. 279)
(1) 2.9 V/m (2) 3.1 V/m (3) 1.6 V/m (4) 4.07 V/m
13. In electromagnetic wave, if peak value of magnetic field Is 1.4 10–8 T, then RMS value of electric
field will be [NCERT Pg. 280]
(1) 4.07 V/m (2) 2.9 V/m (3) 6.2 V/m (4) 3.4 V/m
14. Light with an energy flux of 6 W/cm2 falls on a non reflecting surface at normal incidence.
If surface has an area of 50 cm2. What is total momentum transferred in one minute to
the surface (for complete absorption)? [NCERT Pg. 279]
(1) 6 x 10–5 kg m s–1 (2) 3 x 10–5 kg m s–1
(3) 2 x 10–5 kg m s-1 (4) 6.4 kg m s–1
15. The electric field component propagating along x-axis is given as
E y = 30sin(4.5 10 x + 1.5 10 t) V/m. The frequency of propagating wave is [NCERT Pg. 278]
2 11
(1) 5 GHz (2) 17.6 GHz (3) 23.9 GHz (4) 15.4 GHz
16. A capacitor is made of two circular plates each of radius 7 cm and separated by 2 cm. The
capacitor is being charged by an external source. The charging current is constant and equal to
0.2 A. What is the rate of change of potential deference between the plates? [NCERT Pg.285]
(1) 1.62 1010V/S (2) 2.941010V/S (3) 3.54 1010V/s (4) 3.24 1010V/S
17. A radio is tuned to station in the 30 MHz to 54 MHz. What is corresponding wavelength
band? [NCERT Pg.281]
(1) AM band (2) FM band (3) Short band (4) UHF band
18. Which among the following statement is incorrect in electromagnetic spectrum?
[NCERT Pg. 282]
(1) Long distance radio broadcast use short waves
(2) X-rays astronomy is possible from satellite orbiting earth
(3) Microwaves range from 400 nm to 0.6 nm
(4) Snakes are sensitive to infrared waves
19. Correct match of column I with column II is [NCERT Pg. 283]
C-l(waves) C-ll (Production)
A. Infra-red P . Rapid vibration of electrons in aerials
B. Radio Q . Electrons in atoms emit light when they move from higher to
lower energy level.
C. Light R . Klystron valve
D. Microwave S . Vibration of atoms and molecules
(1) A-P, B-R, C-S, D-Q (2) A-S, B-P, C-O, D-R
(3) A-Q, B-P. C-S, D-R (4) A-S. B-R. C-P, D-Q
20. Find the incorrect statement among the following. [NCERT Pg. 285]
(1) Accelerated charge particles radiate electromagnetic waves
(2) Visible radiations emitted by atoms is much longer in wavelength than atomic size
(3) X-rays are emitted from heavy atoms
(4) Radio waves are produced by atomic nucleus
12
Physics Smart Booklet
NCERT BASED PRACTICE QUESTIONS
1 Accelerated charge radiate
(a) Electric field (b) Magnetic field
(c) Electromagnetic waves (d) None of these
2 In above question the frequency of the wave
(a) 23.9 GHz (b) 2.39 GHz (c) 239 GHz (d) None of these
3. The wavelength of visible light in electromagnetic waves
(a) 300 – 400 nm (b) 200 – 300 nm
(c) 700 – 400 nm (d) None of these
4. Snake can detect
(a) Infrared waves (b) Ultraviolet waves
(c) Microwaves (d) Radio waves
5. Visible range of insects
(a) Infrared waves (b) Ultra violet waves
(c) Gamma waves (d) None of these
6. The air pressure with height
(a) Increases (b) Decreases (c) Both (a) & (b) (d) None of these
7. A charged particle oscillates about its mean equilibrium position with a frequency of
109Hz. What is the frequency of the electromagnetic waves produced by the oscillator?
(a) 109Hz (b) 1012 Hz (c) 108 Hz (d) None of these
8. The medium wave frequency (MF)
(a) 300 KHz – 3 MHz (b) 3 MHz – 30 MHz
(c) 30 MHz – 3 GHz (d) None of these
9. The high frequency waves
(a) 300 KHz – 3 MHz (b) 3 MHz – 30 MHz
(c) 30 MHz – 3 GHz (d) None of these
10 A plane electromagnetic wave of frequency 25 MHz travels in free space along the x-
direction. At a particular point in space and time. E = 6.3 j V/m. What is B at this
point?
^ ^
(a) 2.1×10 -5 k T
k
(b) 2.1×10-9 T (c) 2.1×10-8 T (d) None of these
11. The magnetic field in a plane electromagnetic wave is given by By = 210-7 sin ( 0.5
13
Physics Smart Booklet
(a) 2.9 V/m (b) 29 V/m (c) 29 (d) 2.9 × 10-2 V/m
14. Fig. shows a capacitor made of two circular plates each of radius 12 cm, and
separated by 5.0cm. The capacitor is being charged by an external source (not shown
in the fig.). The charging current is constant and equal to 0.15A. Calculate the
capacitance and the rate of charge of potential difference between the plates.
(a) 187×109V s-1 (b) .187×109 Vs-1
(c) 1.87×109 V s-1 (d) 1.8×108 Vs-1
15. A parallel plate capacitor (Fig) made of circular plates each of radius R = 6.0 cm has
capacitance C = 100pF. The capacitor is connected to a 230 v ac supply with a
(angular) frequency of 300 rad s-1.
What is the rms value of the conduction current?
(a) 6.9A (b) 79A (b) 89A (d) 7.9A
16. A plane electromagnetic wave travels in vacuum along z-direction. If the frequency of
the wave is 30 MHz, what is its wavelength?
(a) 20 m (b) 50 m (c) 10 m (d) 40 m
17. A radio can tune in to any station in the 7.5 MHz to 12 MHz band. What is the
corresponding wavelength band?
(a) 50m - 25 m (b) 40 m- 25 m (c) 55 m – 60 m (d) 60 m- 70 m
18. A charged particle oscillates about its mean equilibrium position with a frequency of
109 Hz. What is the frequency of the electromagnetic waves produced by the
oscillator?
(a) 106Hz (b) 105 Hz (c) 109Hz (d) None
19. The amplitude of the magnetic field part of a harmonic electromagnetic wave in
vacuum is B=510n T. What is the amplitude of the electric field part of the wave?
(a) 153 N/C (b) 163 N/C (c) 173 N/C (d) 143 N/C
20. Suppose that the electric field amplitude of an electromagnetic wave is E0 = 120 N/C
and that its frequency is v =50.0 MHz. Determine, B0, ,k, and .
(c) −k
(a)
j (b) k (d) None
23. About 5% of the power of a 100 W light bulb is converted to a visible radiation. What
is the average intensity of visible radiation at a distance of 1 m from the bulb?
Assume that the radiation is emitted isotropically and neglect reflection?
14
Physics Smart Booklet
(a) 4 W/m2 (b) 4.5 W/m2 (c) 0.4 W/m2 (d) 3W/ m2
24. If E and B represent electric and magnetic field vectors of the electromagnetic waves,
then the direction of propagation of the electromagnetic waves is that of
(a) E (b) B (c) E B (d) None of these
25. Which of the following rays are not electromagnetic waves?
(a) -rays (b) -rays (c) X-rays (d) heat rays.
26. Which of the following has minimum wavelength?
(a) X-rays (b) Ultraviolet rays (c) -rays (d) Cosmic rays
27. According to Maxwell’s hypothesis, a changing electric field give rise to
(a) an e.m.f (b) electric current
(c) magnetic field (d) pressure gradient
28. Velocity of light is equal to
1
(a) 0 0 (b) 0 / 0 (c) 0 / 0 (d)
0 0
29. If the frequency of EM radiations is halved then the energy of EM radiation will
become
(a) double (b) remains unchanged
(c) becomes half (d) becomes one fourth
30. Select the wrong statement. EM waves
(a) are transverse in nature.
(b) travel in free space at a speed of light.
(c) are produced by accelerating charges.
(d) travel in all media with same speed.
31. Which of the following has/have zero average value in a plane electromagnetic wave?
(a) Both magnetic and electric field (b) Electric field only
(c) Magnetic energy (d) Electric energy
32. The electromagnetic waves
(a) travel with the speed of sound
(b) travel with the same speed in all media
(c) travel in free space with the speed of light
(d) do not travel through a medium
33. Displacement current is
(a) continuous when electric field is changing in the circuit
(b) continuous when magnetic field is changing in the circuit
(c) continuous in both types of fields
(d) continuous through wires and resistance only
34. When an electromagnetic waves enter the ionised layer of ionosphere, the motion of
electron cloud produces a space current and the electric field has its own
capacitative displacement current, then
(a) the space current is in phase of displacement current
(b) the space current lags behind the displacement current by a phase 180°.
(c) the space current lags behind the displacement current by a phase 90°.
(d) the space current leads the displacement current by a phase 90°.
15
Physics Smart Booklet
35. Radio waves and visible light in vacuum have
(a) same velocity but different wavelength
(b) same frequency
(c) different velocity
(d) same wavelength
36. Assertion : The velocity of electromagnetic waves depends on electric and magnetic
properties of the medium.
Reason : Velocity of electromagnetic waves in free space is constant.
(a) Assertion is correct, reason is correct; reason is a correct explanation for
assertion.
(b) Assertion is correct, reason is correct; reason is not a correct explanation for
assertion
(c) Assertion is correct, reason is incorrect
(d) Assertion is incorrect, reason is correct.
37. The magnetic field in a travelling electromagnetic wave has a peak value of 20 nT.
The peak value of electric field strength is
(a) 3 V/m (b) 6 V/m (c) 9 V/m (d) 12 V/m
38. When an electromagnetic wave enters an ionised layer of earth’s atmosphere present
in ionosphere
(a) the electron cloud will not oscillate in the electric field of the wave
(b) the electron cloud will oscillate in the electric field of wave in the phase of
sinusoidal electromagnetic wave
(c) the electron cloud will oscillate in the electric field of wave in the opposite phase of
sinusoidal electromagnetic wave
(d) the electron cloud will oscillate in the electric field of wave with a phase
retardation of 90° for a sinusoidal electromagnetic wave.
39. The ozone layer converts the ultraviolet radiation to [which is used to heat the
atmosphere and the earth's surface.]
(a) Infrared (b) Visible ray (c) g-ray (d) None of these
40. The amplitude of an electromagnetic wave in vacuum is doubled with no other
changes made to the wave. As a result of this doubling of the amplitude, which of the
following statements are incorrect?
I. The speed of wave propagation chages only
II. The frequency of the wave changes only
III. The wavelength of the wave changes only
(a) I and II (b) II and III (c) I and III (d) I, II and III
41. We consider the radiation emitted by the human body. Which one of the following
statements is true?
(a) The radiation emitted is in the infrared region.
(b) The radiation is emitted only during the day.
(c) The radiation is emitted during the summers and absorbed during winters.
(d) The radiation is emitted lies in the ultraviolet region and hence is not visible.
42. Which of the following electromagnetic waves has the longest wavelength?
(a) uv-rays (b) Visible light (c) Radio waves (d) Microwaves
16
Physics Smart Booklet
43. Which of the following is of shortest wavelength?
(a) X-rays (b) -rays (c) Microwaves (d) Radio waves
44. Which of the following is the infrared wavelength?
(a) 10–4 cm (b) 10–5 cm (c) 10–6 cm (d) 10–7 cm
45. The wavelength of X-ray is of the order of
(a) 1 metre (b) 1 cm (c) 1 micron (d) 1 angstrom
46. Radio waves do not penetrate in the band of
(a) ionosphere (b) mesosphere (c) troposphere (d) stratosphere
47. What is the cause of “Green house effect”?
(a) Infrared rays (b) Ultraviolet rays (c) X-rays (d) Radio waves
48. Assertion : The basic difference between various types of electromagnetic waves lies
in their wavelength or frequencies.
Reason : Electromagnetic waves travel through vacuum with the same speed.
(a) Assertion is correct, reason is correct; reason is a correct explanation for
assertion.
(b) Assertion is correct, reason is correct; reason is not a correct explanation for
assertion
(c) Assertion is correct, reason is incorrect
(d) Assertion is incorrect, reason is correct.
49. Assertion : Infrared radiation plays an important role in maintaining the average
temperature of earth.
Reason : Infrared radiations are sometimes referred to as heat waves.
(a) Assertion is correct, reason is correct; reason is a correct explanation for
assertion.
(b) Assertion is correct, reason is correct; reason is not a correct explanation for
assertion
(c) Assertion is correct, reason is incorrect
(d) Assertion is incorrect, reason is correct.
50. It is possible to take pictures of those objects which are not fully visible to the eye
using camera films sensitive to
(a) ultraviolet rays (b) infrared rays (c) microwaves (d) radio waves
51. Which of the following wave can not be produced by charges accelerating in AC
circuits having an inductor and capacitor?
(a) Radio wave (b) Microwave (c) Infrared (d) None of these
17
Physics Smart Booklet
(1) increases (2) decreases (3) is zero (4) remains unchanged
3. The speed of electromagnetic wave is same for
(1) odd frequencies (2) even frequencies (3) all frequencies (4) all intensities
4. The electromagnetic waves
(1) travel with the speed of sound
(2) travel with the same speed in all media
(3) travel in free space with the speed of light
(4) do not travel through a medium
5. The figure here gives the electric field of an electromagnetic wave at a certain point and a certain instant.
The wave is transporting energy in the negative z-direction. The direction of the magnetic field of the
wave at that point and instant is
18
Physics Smart Booklet
10. If a source is transmitting electromagnetic wave of frequency 8.2 × 10 6 Hz, then wavelength of the
electromagnetic waves transmitted from the source will be
(1) 36.6 m (2) 40.5 m (3) 42.3 m (4) 50.9 m
11. Figure shows a parallel plate capacitor and the current in the connecting wires that is discharging
the capacitor.
19
Physics Smart Booklet
2E 0 2E 0 E 2E 0
(1) ĵsin kz cos t (2) ĵsin kz sin t (3) 0 ĵsin kz sin t (4) ĵcos kz cos t
c c c c
21. If c is the speed of electromagnetic waves in vacuum, its speed in a medium of dielectric constant K and
relative permeability r is
1 c K
(1) v = (2) v = c r K (3) v = (4) v =
r K r K r C
22. Which of the following type of radiations are radiated by an oscillating electric charge?
(1) Electric (2) Magnetic (3) Thermoelectric (4) Electromagnetic
23. According to Maxwell’s hypothesis, a changing electric field gives rise to
(1) an e.m.f
(2) electric displacement current
(3) magnetic field
(4) pressure gradient
24. For plane electromagnetic waves propagating in the z-direction, which one of the following combination
gives the correct possible direction for E and B field respectively?
( ) ( )
(1) 2iˆ + 3jˆ and ˆi + 2ˆj ( ) ( )
(2) −2iˆ − 3jˆ and 3iˆ − 2jˆ
(3) ( 3iˆ + 4jˆ ) and ( 4iˆ − 3jˆ ) (4) ( ˆi + 2ˆj) and ( 2iˆ − ˆj)
25. A beam has intensity 2.5 × 1014 Wm–2. The ratio of electric and magnetic fields in the beam is
(1) 2.98 × 108 NC–1T–1 (2) 8.32 × 105 NCT–1 (3) 6.22 × 107NC–1T–1 (4) 2.88 × 106 NCT–1
26. Conduction current flows
(1) only through resistance (2) through wires and resistance
(3) only through capacitor (4) through wires, resistance and capacitor
27. The displacement current is
(1) 0dE / dt (2) 0 dE / dt (3) 0 E / R (4) 0q C / R
R
28. If a source is transmitting electromagnetic wave of frequency 5.2 × 106 Hz, then wavelength of the
electromagnetic waves transmitted from the source will be
(1) 57.6 m (2) 39.8 m (3) 94.8 m (4) 48.6 m
29. In an apparatus, the electric field was found to oscillate with an amplitude of 18 V/m. The magnitude of the
oscillating magnetic field will be
(1) 4 × 10–6 T (2) 6 × 10–8 T (3) 9 × 10–9 T (4) 11 × 10–11 T
30. In an electromagnetic wave, the electric and magnetic fields are 100 V m–1 and 0.265 A m–1. The maximum
energy flow is
(1) 26.5 W/m2 (2) 36.5 W/m2 (3) 46.7 W/m2 (4) 765 W/m2
31. A plane electromagnetic wave travels in free space along x-axis. At a particular point in space, the electric
field along y-axis is 9.3V m–1. The magnetic induction (2) along z-axis is
(1) 3.1 × 10–8 T (2) 3 × 10–5 T (3) 3 × 10–6 T (4) 9.3 × 10–6 T
32. A new system of unit is evolved in which the values of μ0 and 0 are 2 and 8 respectively. Then the speed
of light in this system will be
(1) 0.25 (2) 0.5 (3) 0.75 (4) 1
20
Physics Smart Booklet
33. The average electric field of electromagnetic waves in certain region of free space is 9 × 10–4NC–1. Then
the average magnetic field in the same region is of the order of
1
(1) 27 × 10–4 T (2) 3 × 10–12 T (3) 10–12 T (4) 3 × 1012 T
3
34. The amplitudes of electric and magnetic fields increases by a factor of 2 each then velocity of light:
(1) decreases (2) remains constant (3) increases thrice (4) increases twice
35. The rms value of the electric field of the light coming from the Sun is 720 N/C. The average total energy
density of the electromagnetic wave is
(1) 4.58 × 10–6 J/m3 (2) 6.37 × 10–9 J/m3 (3) 81.35 × 10–12 J/m3 (4) 3.3 × 10–3 J/m3
36. In order to establish an instantaneous displacement current of 1 mA in the space between the plates of 2
F parallel plate capacitor, the potential difference need to apply is
(1) 100 Vs–1 (2) 200 Vs–1 (3) 300 Vs–1 (4) 500 Vs–1
37. A plane electromagnetic wave travels in free space along X-direction. If the value of B (in tesla) at a
particular point in space and time is 1.2 × 10–8 k̂ . The value of E (in Vm–1) at that point is
(1) 1.2 ˆj (2) 3.6 k̂ (3) 1.2 k̂ (4) 3.6 ˆj
38. A plane electromagnetic wave propagating in the X-direction has wavelength of 3.0 mm. The electric field
is in the Y-direction and its maximum magnitude is 10 Vm–1. The equation for the electric field as a function
of x and t is
x
(1) 10sin t −
c
x
(2) 10sin 21011 t −
c
x
(3) 10sin t −
c
x
(4) 10sin 1011 t −
c
Topic 2: Electromagnetic Spectrum
39. The range of wavelength of visible light is
(1) 10 Å to 100 Å
(2) 4000 Å to 8000 Å
(3) 8000 Å to 10,000 Å
(4) 10,000 Å to 15,000 Å
40. Which of the following are not electromagnetic waves?
(1) Cosmic rays (2) Gamma rays (3) -rays (4) X-rays
41. The electromagnetic radiation used in food processing sterilizing agent is
(1) microwaves (2) UV rays (3) gamma rays (4) radio waves
42. Microwaves are detected by
(1) balometer (2) point contact diodes
(3) thermopiles (4) the eye
43. Electromagnetic radiation of highest frequency is
(1) infrared radiations (2) visible radiation (3) radio waves (4) -rays
44. Which of the following shows green-house effect?
(1) Ultraviolet rays (2) Infrared rays (3) X-rays (4) None of these
21
Physics Smart Booklet
45. Light of an electromagnetic radiation has an energy 2.06 eV each. To which region of electromagnetic
spectrum does it belong ?
(1) X-ray region (2) Ultra violet region
(3) Infrared region (4) Visible region
46. Which rays are not the portion of electromagnetic spectrum?
(1) X-rays (2) Microwaves (3) -rays (4) Radio waves
47. The structure of solids is investigated by using
(1) cosmic rays (2) X-rays (3) -rays (4) infra-red radiations
48. We consider the radiation emitted by the human body. Which of the following statements is true?
(1) the radiation emitted lies in the ultraviolet region and hence is not visible.
(2) the radiation emitted is in the infra-red region.
(3) the radiation is emitted only during the day.
(4) the radiation is emitted during the summers and absorbed during the winters.
49. Photons of an electromagnetic radiation has an energy 11 keV each. To which region of electromagnetic
spectrum does it belong ?
(1) X-ray region (2) Ultra violet region (3) Infrared region (4) Visible region
50. If vs, vx and vm are the speed of soft gamma rays, X-rays and microwaves respectively in vacuum, then
(1) vs > vx > vm (2) vs < vx < vm (3) vs > vx < vm (4) vs = vx = vm
51. It is possible to take pictures of those objects which are not fully visible to the eye using camera films
sensitive to
(1) ultraviolet rays (2) infrared rays (3) microwaves (4) radio waves
52. The basic source of electromagnetic radiation is an accelerated :
(1) charge (2) magnet (3) light (4) a-particle
53. The ozone layer converts the ultraviolet radiation to [which is used to heat the atmosphere and the earth's
surface.]
(1) Infrared ray (2) Visible ray (3) g-ray (4) None of these
54. Radio waves and visible light in vacuum have
(1) same velocity but different wavelength
(2) continuous emission spectrum
(3) band absorption spectrum
(4) line emission spectrum
55. Which of the following waves have the maximum wavelength?
(1) X-rays (2) I.R. rays (3) UV rays (4) Radio waves
56. The ozone layer absorbs radiation of wavelengths
(1) less than 3 × 10–7 m (2) more than 3 × 10–7 m
(3) less than 3 × 10–5 m (4) more than 3 × 10–5 m
57. Radio waves with frequencies higher than television signals are
(1) ultrasonic waves (2) sound waves (3) light waves (4) microwaves
58. Which of the following electromagnetic waves has the longest wavelength?
(1) Heat waves (2) Visible light
(3) Radio frequency waves (4) Microwaves
59. Radio waves do not penetrate in the band of
(1) ionosphere (2) mesosphere (3) troposphere (4) stratosphere
60. A radar sends the waves towards a distant object and receives the signal reflected by object. These waves
are
(1) sound waves (2) light waves (3) radio waves (4) microwaves
22
Physics Smart Booklet
23
Physics Smart Booklet
13. When light propagates through a material medium of relative permittivity r and relative permeability
r , the velocity of light, v is given by (c-velocity of light in vacuum) [NEET-2022]
r r c
1) v = c 2) v = 3) v = 4) v =
r r r r
14. Match List – I with List – II: [NEET-2022]
List – I List – II
(Electromagnetic waves) (Wavelength)
A) AM radio waves i) 10−10 m
B) Microwaves ii) 10 2 m
C) Infrared radiations iii) 10 −2 m
D) X-rays iv) 10 −4 m
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
1) (a)-(iv), (b)-(iii), c-(ii), (d)-(i) 2) (a)-(iii), (b)-(ii), c-(i), (d)-(iv)
3) (a)-(iii), (b)-(iv), c-(ii), (d)-(i) 4) (a)-(ii), (b)-(iii), c-(iv), (d)-(i)
24
Physics Smart Booklet
NCERT LINE BY LINE QUESTIONS – ANSWERS
1) d 2) d 3) d 4) a 5) b 6) d 7) d 8) c 9) b 10) c
11) c 12) b 13) b 14) a 15) c 16) b 17) c 18) c 19) b 20) d
25
Physics Smart Booklet
dE dE
or B 2r = 0 0 A B
dt dt
int ensity I
9. (2) Momentum per unit time per unit area = =
speed of wave c
Change in momentum per unit time per unit area =ΔI/c= radiation pressure (P), i.e. P=ΔI/c.
Momentum of incident wave per unit time per unit area −I/c
When wave is fully absorbed by the surface, the momentum of the reflected wave per unit time per unit
area =0
I I I
Radiation pressure (P)= change in momentum per unit time per unit area = = −0 =
c c c
When wave is totally reflected, then momentum of the reflected wave per unit time per unit area =−I/c.
I I 2I
= −− =
Radiation pressure (P) c c c
I
2I
Here, P lies between c and .
c
c 3 108
10. (1) = = = 36.5 m
v 8.2 106
11. (1) According to conservation of charge, the displacement
current must be leftward.
26
Physics Smart Booklet
E
16. (3) Incident momentum, p =
c
For perfectly reflecting surface with normal incidence
2E p 2E F 2E
p = 2p = F= = P= =
c t ct A ctA
17. (3) Speed of EM waves in vacuum = 0 0 = constant
18. (1) Electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature as is evident by polarization interference and diffraction explain
the wave nature of light or EM waves polarization is the phenomenon by which we restrict the vibration of wave in
a particular direction perpendicular to direction of W are propagation. So, it explains the transverse nature
of EM waves.
19. (2) From question,
B0 = 20 nT = 20 × 10–9T
( velocity of light in vacuum C = 3 × 108 ms–1)
E 0 = B0 C E 0 = B . C = 20 10−9 3 108 = 6V / m
2E 0 ˆ
20. (3) Magnetic field vector, B = jsin kz sin t
c
1 1
21. (3) Speed of light of vacuum c = and in another medium v =
00
c c
= = r K v =
v 00 r K
22. (4) Any stationary charge produce static electric field. And the field strength is given by:
r, is the radial distance from the point charge.
Q, is the charge in Coulomb.
When electric charge oscillates electric field at any point also oscillates. And according to Maxwell's
equations varying electric field produces magnetic field and an oscillating electric field produces
oscillating magnetic field.
This thing is used in antennas in which oscillating current of certain frequency produces oscillating
electric and magnetic field which propagates through space(electromagnetic waves).
23. (3) According to Maxwell, a changing electric field is a source of magnetic field.
24. (2) As we know, E.B = 0 E ⊥ B
and E B should be along Z direction
( ) ( )
As −2iˆ − 3jˆ 3iˆ − 2jˆ = 5kˆ
Hence option (2) is the correct answer.
25. (1) 2.98 108 NC−1T −1
26. (4) Conduction current flows through wires, resistance and capacitor
27. (1) ID = 0dE / dt
c 3 108
28. (1) Here, = = = 57.6m
v 5.2 106
29. (2) Here, E0 = 18 V/m; B0 = ?
E 18
B0 = 0 = = 6 10−8 T
c 3 108
30. (1) Here, amplitude of electric field, E0 = 100 V/m; amplitude of magnetic field, H0 = 0.265 A/m. We know
that the maximum rate of energy flow,
S = E0 × H0 = 100 × 0.265 = 26.5 W/m2.
31. (1) Velocity of light
27
Physics Smart Booklet
E E 9.3
C= B= = = 3.110−8
B C 3 10 8
28
Physics Smart Booklet
41. (2) Ultra violet rays are used to sterilise milk as their wavelengths are shorter than visible rays and at small
wavelengths they can break molecular bonds within DNA of bacteria (present in milk) thereby killing or disabling
them
42. (2) Point contact diodes, commonly called crystals, are the oldest microwave semiconductor devices. Unlike the pn-
junction diode, the point-contact diode depends on the pressure of contact between a point and a semiconductor
crystal for its operation. One section of the diode consists of a small rectangular crystal of n-type silicon. A fine
beryllium-copper, bronze-phosphor, or tungsten wire presses against the crystal and forms the other part of the
diode During the manufacture of the point contact diode, a relatively large current is passed from the the wire to the
silicon crystal. The result of this large current is the formation of a small region of p-type material around the crystal
in the vicinity of the point contact. Thus, a pn-junction is formed which behaves in the same way as a normal pn-
junction. The pointed wire is used instead of a flat metal plate to produce a high-intensity electric field at the point
contact without using a large external source voltage.
43. (4) -rays > visible radiation > infrared > Radio waves
44. (2) Infrared radiations reflected by low lying clouds and keeps the earth warm.
hc hc 1240eVnm 0
45. (4) E = = = = 6000 A
E 2.06eV
29
Physics Smart Booklet
NEET PREVIOUS YEARS QUESTIONS-EXPLANATIONS
1. (2) Direction of oscillating magnetic field of e.m. wave will be perpendicular to electric field and wave
propagation direction.
2. (1) Given, Erms = 6 V/m
Also, conduction current in wires is equal to displacement current between the plates of capacitor.
1 1
8. v= =
r r 00
3 108 30
= = 108 = 2.5 108 ms −1
1.44 12
9. Gamma rays have shortest wavelength among all options.
2 2
10. = = = 2 10−3 m
K 10 3
11. I = uavg C
B02
uavg B =
4 0
1
uavg E = 0 E02
2
( u avg B = uavg E )
30
Physics Smart Booklet
1
= 0 B02 c 2 (For the intensity of wave, EF and M.F contribute equally)
4
( 0 c 2 ) B02
1
4
1 1 2
B0
4 0
B02
uavg E =
4 0
C
13 = r r
v
C
v=
r r
14. AM radio waves = 102 m 0.1 m
Micro waves = 0.1to1mm
Infrared rays = 1mm to 700 nm
X-rays = 1 mm to 10 −3 nm
31