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8. ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES

SYLLABUS: Basic idea of displacement current, Electromagnetic waves, their characteristics, their
transverse nature (qualitative idea only). Electromagnetic spectrum (radio waves, microwaves,
infrared, visible, ultraviolet, X-rays, gamma rays) including elementary facts about their uses.

GIST
• Conduction current and displacement current together have the property of continuity.
• Conduction current & displacement current are precisely the same.
• Conduction current arises due to flow of electrons in the conductor. Displacement current arises due
to electric flux changing with time.
ⅆ∅
• 𝑰𝑫 = 𝜺𝟎 𝑬
ⅆ𝒕
• Maxwell’s equations
• Gauss’s Law in Electrostatics
𝑄
• ∮ ⃗𝐸. ⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑑𝑆=
𝜀0
• Gauss’s Law in Magnetism
• ∮ ⃗𝐵. ⃗⃗⃗⃗
𝑑𝑆=0
• Ampere’s – Maxwell law
ⅆ∅
𝑑𝑙 =0 I + 0 0 ⅆ𝒕𝑬
⃗ . ⃗⃗⃗
∫𝐵

• Electromagnetic Wave :- The wave in which there are sinusoidal variation of electric and magnetic
fields at right angles to each other as well as right angles to the direction of wave propagation.
1
• Velocity of EM waves in free space:𝑐 = 3x108 m/s
√𝜇0𝜀0

• The Scientists associated with the study of EM waves are Hertz, Jagdish Chandra Bose &
Marconi.
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• EM wave is a transverse wave because of which it undergoes polarization effect.

• Electric vectors are only responsible for optical effects of EM waves.

𝐸
• The amplitude of electric & magnetic fields are related by 𝐵 = 𝑐

• Oscillating or accelerating charged particle produces EM waves.

• Orderly arrangement of electromagnetic radiation according to its frequency or wavelength is

electromagnetic spectrum.

• Hint to memorize the electromagnetic spectrum in decreasing order of its frequency.

• Gandhiji’sX-rays Used Vigorously InMedicalResearch

• EM waves also carry energy, momentum and information

MIND MAP:
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COMPETENCY BASED QUESTIONS

1. The electric field associated with an electromagnetic wave in vacuum is given by 𝐸⃗ =40 cos (kz –
6 × 108t) î, where E, z and t are in volt/m, meter and seconds respectively. The value of wave vector
K is
(a) 2 m-1
(b) 0.5 m-1
(c) 6 m-1
(d) 3 m-1
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Answer: a
Explanation:
(a) Wave vector, k=W/C=6×108/3×108=2m−1

2. Electromagnetic waves with wavelength λ are used by a FM radio station for broadcasting. Here λ
belongs to
(a) radio waves
(b) VHF radio waves
(c) UHF radio waves
(d) microwaves

Answer: b

3. The oscillating magnetic field in a plane electromagnetic wave is given as By = (8 × 10-6) sin [2 ×
1011t+ 300πx] T, wavelength of the electromagnetic wave is
(a) 0.80 cm
(b) 1 × 103m
(c) 2 × 10-2cm
(d) 0.67 cm

Answer: d
Explanation:
(d) wavelength λ=2π/k=2 π/ 300π=1/150m
= 0.67 cm

4. Maxwell in his famous equations of electromagnetism introduced the concept of

(a) ac current
(b) displacement current
(c) impedance
(d) reactance

Answer: b

5. The conduction current is same as displacement current when source is

(a) ac only
(b) dc only
(c) either ac or dc
(d) neither dc nor ac

Answer: c

6. If a variable frequency ac source is connected to a capacitor then with decrease in frequency the
displacement current will
(a) increase
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(b) decrease
(c) remains constant
(d) first decrease then increase

Answer: b

7. An electromagnetic wave can be produced, when charge is

(a) moving with a constant velocity
(b) moving in a circular orbit
(c) falling in an electric field
(d) both (b) and (c)

Answer: d

8. Which of the following statement is false for the properties of electromagnetic waves?
(a) Both electric and magnetic field vectors attain the maxima and minima at the same place and
same time.
(b) The energy in electromagnetic waves is divided equally between electric and magnetic field
vectors.
(c) Both electric and magnetic field vectors are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the
direction of propagation of wave.
(d) These waves do not require any material medium for propagation.

Answer: c

9. Which of the following has/have zero average value in a plane electromagnetic wave?
(a) Both magnetic and electric fields
(b) Electric field only
(c) Magnetic field only
(d) None of these

Answer:a
10. A charged particle oscillates about its mean equilibrium position with a frequency of 109 Hz. The
frequency of electromagnetic waves produced by the oscillator is
(a) 106 Hz
(b) 107 Hz
(c) 108 Hz
(d) 109 Hz

Answer: d
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11. If E and B denote electric and magnetic fields respectively, which of the following is
dimensionless?

Answer: a

12. The ultra high frequency band of radio waves in electromagnetic wave is used as in
(a) television waves
(b) cellular phone communication
(c) commercial FM radio
(d) both (a) and (c)

Answer: b

13. The waves used by artificial satellites for communication is

(a) microwaves
(b) infrared waves
(c) radio waves
(d) X-rays

Answer: a

14. Which of the following electromagnetic waves is used in medicine to destroy cancer cells?
(a) IR-rays
(b) Visible rays
(c) Gamma rays
(d) Ultraviolet rays

Answer: c

15. Light with an energy flux of 20 W/cm2 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
minutes is , [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) 36 × 10-5 kg m/s.
(b) 36 × 10-4 kg m/s.
(c) 108 ×104 kgm/s.
(d) 1.08 ×107kg m/s.
Answer: b
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16. The electric field intensity produced by the radiations coming from 100 W bulb at a 3 m distance
is E. The electric field intensity produced by the radiations coming from 50 W bulbs at the same
distance is [NCERT Exemplar]

Answer: d

17. If E and B represent electric and magnetic field vectors of the electromagnetic wave, the direction
of propagation of electromagnetic wave is along [NCERT Exemplar]
(a ) 𝐸⃗
(b) 𝐵⃗
(c) 𝐵⃗ × 𝐸⃗ .
(d) 𝐸⃗ x 𝐵
⃗.

Answer: d

18. 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 [NCERT Exemplar]

Answer: c

19. An electromagnetic wave travels in vacuum along z direction: E = (E1^i + E2^j) cos(kz – wt).
Choose the correct options from the following:

(c) The given electromagnetic field is circularly polarised.

(d) The given electromagnetic wave is unpolarised.
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Answer: a

20. An electromagnetic wave travelling along z-axis is given as-E=E0 cos (kz – ω t). Choose the
incorrect option from the following;
⃗ = 1/c k̂× 𝐸⃗ = 1/ω(𝐵
(a) The associated magnetic field is given as 𝐵 ⃗ × 𝐸⃗ )
⃗⃗⃗ = c(𝐵
(b) The electromagnetic field can be written in terms of the associated magnetic field as 𝐸 ⃗⃗⃗ ×ĵ)
(c) k̂. 𝐸⃗ = 0, k̂.⃗⃗⃗𝐵≠0
(d) k̂×⃗⃗⃗𝐸 = 0, k̂ × 𝐵 ⃗ = 0.

Answer: d

21. A plane electromagnetic wave propagating along z direction can have the following pairs of E
and B
(a) Ex,By.
(b) Ey, Bz.
(c) Bx, Ey.
(d) None of these

Answer: a

22. A charged particle oscillates about its mean equilibrium position with a frequency of 109 Hz. For
producing electromagnetic waves which one is not true?
(a) They will have frequency of 109 Hz.
(b) They will have frequency of 2 × 109 Hz.
(c) They will have a wavelength of 0.3 m.
(d) They fall in the region of radio waves.

Answer: b

23. 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) Falling in a magnetic field.

Answer: b

24. 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 [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) visible region.
(b) Infrared region.
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(c) Ultraviolet region.

(d) Microwave region.

Answer: c

25. The ratio of contributions made by the electric field and magnetic field components to the
intensity of an EM wave is [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) c : 1
(6) c² : 1
(c) 1 : 1
(d) √c : 1

Answer: c

26. An EM wave of intensity I falls on a surface kept in vacuum and exerts radiation pressure p on it.
Which of the following is not true? [NCERT Exemplar]
(a) Radiation pressure is I/c if the wave is totally absorbed.
(b) Radiation pressure is I/c if the wave is totally reflected.
(c) Radiation pressure is 2I/c if the wave is totally reflected.
(d) Radiation pressure is in the range I/c < p < 2I/c for real surfaces.

Answer: b

27. Speed of electromagnetic wave related to electric field and magnetic field vector in vacuum.

Answer: a

28. Which of the following statement is false for the properties of em waves?
(a) The energy of em wave is divided equally between electric and magnetic fields.
(b) Both electric and magnetic field vectors are parallel to each and perpendicular to the direction of
propagation of wave.
(c) These waves do not require any material medium for propagation.
(d) Both electric and magnetic field vectors attain the maximum and minimum at the same place and
same time.

Answer: d
Explanation:
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(b) Electric and magnetic field vectors are mutually perpendicular to each other directed along the
propagation of wave.

29. An electromagnetic wave going through vacuum is described by E=E0 sin (kx- ωt). Which of the
following is/are independent of the wave length?

(a) ω (b) ω (c)k/ ω (d) k ω

Answer : c

30. An electromagnetic wave going through vacuum is described by E=E0 sin (kx-wt); B=B0 sin (kx-
ωt). Which of the following equation is true?

(a)E0 k=B0ω (b) E0ω =B0k

(c) E0B0 = ωk (d) none of these

Answer : a

CASE-STUDY BASED QUESTION

1. X- Rays

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, similar to visible light. Unlike light, however, x-rays
have higher energy and can pass through most objects, including the body. Medical x-rays are used to
generate images of tissues and structures inside the body

Q1. (A) What is the most common method of preparation of X rays?

a) Magnetron valve b) vibration of atoms and molecules
c) Bombardment of metal by high energy electrons d) radioactive decay of nucleus
OR
Q1). (B) Which of the following set of instrument /equipment can detect X- rays?
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a) Photocells, photographic film b) Thermopiles, bolometer

c) Photographic film, Geiger tube d) Geiger tube, human eye

Q2). Where do X rays fall on the electromagnetic spectrum?

a) Between UV region and infrared region b) Between gamma rays and UV
region
c) Between infrared and microwaves d) Between microwaves and radio
waves

Q3) What is the use of rays lying beyond X ray region in electromagnetic spectrum
a) Used to kill microbes
b) Used to detect heat loss in insulated systems
c) Used in standard broadcast radio and television
d) Used In oncology, to kill cancerous cells.

Q4). Which of the following has the lowest frequency?

(a) microwaves (b)ultra-violet
(c) X-rays (d) None
ANSWER:
Q1. (A) c OR Q1. (B) c Q2. b Q3. d Q.4.a

2. GAMMA RAYS IN TREATMENT OF CANCER

Gamma rays are used in radiotherapy to Treat cancer. They are used to spot tumors. they kill the
living cells and damage malignant tumor.

Q.1. what is the source of gamma rays?

a) Radioactive decay of nucleus
b) Accelerated motion of charges in conducting wire
c) Hot bodies and molecule
d) Klystron valve
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Q.2. (A) How is wavelength of gamma rays

a) low b) high
c) infinite d) zero
OR
Q.2. (B) Which of the following is not a use of infrared waves
a) Used in treatment for certain forms of cancer
b) in military and civilian applications include target acquisition, surveillance, night vision, homing,
and tracking.
c) to observe changing blood flow in the skin
d) In imaging cameras, used to detect heat loss in insulated systems

Q.3. What is other use of gamma rays?

a) used to change white topaz to blue topaz
b) used in aircraft navigation
(c)used in kill microbes
d) checking fractures of bone

Q.4.What is ratio of velocity of X rays and gamma rays in vaccum.

(a) 3:2 b) 2 :3
c) 1:1 d) none

ANSWER
1) a 2) (A) a OR 2) (B) a 3) a 4)c

3. Microwave oven:
The spectrum of electromagnetic radiation contains a part known as microwaves. These waves have
frequency and energy smaller than visible light and wavelength larger than it. What is the principle of
a microwave oven and how does it work ? Our objective is to cook food or warm it up. All food items
such as fruit, vegetables, meat, cereals, etc., contain water as a constituent. Now, what does it mean
when we say that a certain object has become warmer? When the temperature of a body rises, the
energy of the random motion of atoms and molecules increases and the molecules travel or vibrate or
rotate with higher energies. The frequency of rotation of water molecules is about 2.45 gigahertz
(GHz). If water receives microwaves of this frequency, its molecules absorb this radiation, which is
equivalent to heating up water. These molecules share this energy with neighbouring food molecules,
heating up the food. One should use porcelain vessels and non metal containers in a microwave oven
because of the danger of getting a shock from accumulated electric charges. Metals may also melt
from heating. The porcelain container remains unaffected and cool, because its large molecules
vibrate and rotate with much smaller frequencies, and thus cannot absorb microwaves. Hence, they
do not get heaten up. Thus, the basic principle of a microwave oven is to generate microwave
radiation of appropriate frequency in the working space of the oven where we keep food. This way
energy is not wasted in heating up the vessel. In the conventional heating method, the vessel on the
burner gets heated first and then the food inside gets heated because of transfer of energy from the
vessel. In the microwave oven, on the other hand, energy is directly delivered to water molecules
which is shared by the entire food.
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Q 1. As compared to visible light microwave has frequency and energy:

(a) more than visible light.
(b) less than visible light.
(c) equal to visible light.
(d) Frequency is less but energy is more

2. (A) Microwaves are

(a) Transverse electromagnetic wave
(b) Longitudinal electromagnetic wave
(c) Stationary wave
(d) None of the above
OR
2. (B) Which of the following rays are not electromagnetic waves?
(a) γ-rays
(b) β-rays
(c) Microwaves
(d) Heat rays

Q.3. Why should one use porcelain vessels and nonmetal containers in a microwave oven?
(a) Because it will get too much hot.
(b) Because it may crack due to high frequency.
(b) Because it will prevent the food items to become hot.
(d) Because of the danger of getting a shock from accumulated electric charges

Q. 4. In the microwave oven,

(a) energy is directly delivered to water molecules which is shared by the entire food.
(b) the vessel gets heated first, and then the food grains inside.
(c) the vessel gets heated first and then the water molecules collect heat from the body of the vessel.
(d) energy is directly delivered to the food grains.

ANS.
1. (b) 2. (A) (a) OR 2. (B) (b) 3. (d) 4. (a)

4. ELECTROMAGNETIC (EM) SPECTRUM

The electromagnetic (EM) spectrum is the range of all types of EM radiation. Radiation is• energy
that travels and spreads out as it goes – the visible light that comes from a lamp in your house and the
radio waves that come from a radio station are two types of electromagnetic radiation. The other
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types of EM radiation that make up the electromagnetic spectrum are microwaves, infrared light,
ultraviolet rays, X- rays and gamma rays.

Q1. The classification of electromagnetic waves is roughly based on?

a) Wavelength and frequency of waves.
b) Production and detection of waves.
c) The way of travelling of waves.
d) Year discovered.

Q2. Which of the following is NOT a use of electromagnetic rays?

a) Radiotherapy (medicine). b) Checking fractures.
c) Sterilization. d) Explosives.

Q3. Identify the pair having highest frequency and highest wavelength in Electromagnetic waves.
a) UV rays and X- rays
b) Gamma rays and Microwaves.
c) Gamma rays and Radio waves.
d) Radio waves and UV rays.

Q4. (A) What physical quantity is the same for X rays of wavelength 10-10m, red light of wavelength
6800 Ao and radiowaves of wavelength 500 m?
a) Speed in vacuum b) frequency
c) Wavelength d) Energy
OR

Q.4. (B) What is the ratio of velocity of electromagnetic waves having frequency 1MHz and 10MHz
in air?
(a) 1:1 (b)2:1
(c) 1:2 (d)1:10

ANSWER KEY
1. a 2. D 3. C 4. (A) a OR (B) a

5. CHILD MOBILE PHONE WARNING

A major report into mobile phones and health advises limits on

their use by children, the BBC understands.
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While the Stewart Report says that, as a precaution, children should limit their mobile phone use until more research
has been completed. Some studies have suggested that children are more vulnerable to the effects of microwave
radiation emissions because their nervous systems are not fully developed and their skull is thinner than adults,
providing less protection.
Dr Alan Preece, from Bristol University, told the BBC that more research was needed: “I just can’t believe the
explosion in mobile phone use in the last five years. “I think we really do need to research it to reassure the
public that there are no long term effects.”Mary MacLeod, from the National Family and Parenting Institute
said: “Parents need to have accurate information about health risks so that they can make judgments about their
children using mobile phones. “A growing number of children have access
to mobile phones, and they are a great source of comfort and security for
parents, knowing they can find out where their children are and can keep in
touch with them.” The radiation emitted by mobile phones is not X- ray
radiation, but microwave radiation, and some scientists were
concerned that it might actually be heating and damaging brain cells
because the phone is held so close to the head.

1. (A) What type of electromagnetic waves do mobile phones emit?

(a) Heat waves
(b) X-rays
(c) UV rays
(d) Microwaves
OR
(B) The source of all electromagnetic waves is
(a) Magnetic Fields
(b) Heat
(c) Electric Fields
(d) Vibrating charges

2. Which of the following are fundamentally different from the others?

(a) Gamma rays
(b) Microwaves
(c) Sound waves
(d) Light waves
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3. The main difference between microwaves and light waves is

(a) Speed
(b) Wavelength
(c) Nature
(d) None of the above

4. The domestic application of microwave used is

(a) Electrical induction
(b) Water heater
(c) TV
(d) Microwave oven
Answers:
1. (A) (d) OR (B)(d) 2. (c) 3. (b) 4. (d)

6. THEORY OF ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES.

According to Maxwell's electromagnetic equations it has been proved that electric and magnetic field vectors
are perpendicular to each other and also perpendicular to the direction of propagation as shown in the figure
below. If Ex is the electric field along X axis, then by will be the direction of magnetic field along Y axis
and both which are perpendicular to the Z axis showing direction of propagation. The light waves are also
the electromagnetic waves and may travel through vacuum also. So, we can find the velocity of a light
traveling through the material medium having permittivity 'e' and magnetic permeability 'u' as v = 1/Veu.
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In this way, we proved that velocity of light also depends on the electrical and magnetic properties of that
medium through which it is traveling. The velocity of light which is constant everywhere is having value as
3 x 10 m/s. The most technological importance of EM waves is that they are having strong capacity to take
energy from one place to another place. The best examples are radio waves, TV signals which also carry
energy from their broadcasting stations. Also, life is possible on the earth only because of the sunlight
coming from the sun to the earth which carries and it is nothing but the EM waves. Due to which Electro
Magnetic waves are considered as the transverse waves.

1. The frequency of electromagnetic wave which is best suited to observe a particle of radius 3 x 10 - 4 cm is of
the order of
(a) 1015 Hz
(b) 1013 Hz
(c) 1014 Hz
(d) 1012 Hz

2. The pressure exerted by the electromagnetic wave is called as

(a) Light pressure
(b) Electric pressure
(c) Magnetic pressure
(d) Radiation pressure

3. If we want to produce electromagnetic waves of wavelength 500 km by an oscillating charge; then frequency
of oscillating charge must be
(a) 500 Hz
(b) 600 Hz
(c) 167 Hz
(d) 15 Hz

4. (A) Electromagnetic waves travelling in a medium having relative permeability 1.3 and relative permittivity
2.14. The speed of electromagnetic waves in medium must be
(a) 1.8 x 104 m / s
(b) 1.8 x 108 m / s
(c) 1.8 x 102 m ^ 3
(d) 1.8 x 106 m / s
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OR
4. (B) Electromagnetic wave travelling in a medium has speed of 2 x 108 m/s. If the relative permeability is 1,
then the relative permittivity of medium must be
(a) 2
(b) 2.5
(c) 2.25
(d) 1.5

Answers:
1. c 2. D 3. B 4. (A) b OR (B) c

7. ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM
The electromagnetic spectrum consists of visible light, x-rays, gamma rays, microwaves, ultraviolet rays, radio
waves and infrared waves. The waves used in radio and television communication are the radio waves having
frequency range 500 kHz to 1000MHz. In the ultrahigh frequency bands cellular phones uses th radio waves
to transmit voice. Microwaves are the waves having short wavelength. In aircraft navigation, for the radar
system microwaves are used due to their short wavelength. Infrared waves are also called as heat waves.
Infrared radiation has most importance in maintaining earth's surface temperature through greenhouse effect.
The infrared waves have vast application in real life such infrared detectors are used military purposes and
also to see the growth of crops. The waves which are visible to human eye are the visible rays. Visible rays
are having frequency range as 4 x10¹4 Hz to 7 x 10¹ Hz. The huge source of ultraviolet light is the sun. Ultra
violet rays have wavelength range from 4 x 10 m to 6 x 10m. X- rays are used destroy the living tissue and
organisms medical field. Then gamma rays are the rays having wavelength range as 10 m to 10m which are
the high frequency radiations mostly produced in nuclear reactions. Gamma rays are also used to destroy
cancer cells in medical field.

1. (A) The TV waves range from which are the radio waves.
(a) 54 Hz to 890 Hz
(b) 54 MHz to 890 MHz
(c) 500 kHz to 1000 MHz
(d) 1000 Hz to 1000 KHz
OR
(B) The part of the electromagnetic spectrum which is detected by human eye is having wavelength as
(a) 900 – 400 nm
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(b) 200-400 nm
(c) 700-600 nm
(d) 380-700 nm
2. An electromagnetic wave of frequency 3.0 MHz passes from vacuum into a dielectric medium with
relative permittivity epsilon_{c} = 4 Then
(a) wavelength is doubled and frequency remains unchanged
(b) wavelength is doubled and frequency becomes half
(c) wavelength is halved and frequency remains unchanged
(d) wavelength and frequency both remains unchanged

3. The rms value of the electric field of light coming from the sun is 720 N/C. The average total
energy density of the electromagnetic wave
(a) 6.37x 10- 9 Jm-3
(b) 4.58 x10-6 Jm-3
(c) 81.35 x 10-12 Jm-3
(d) 3.3 x10 - 3 Jm-3

4. A plane electromagnetic wave propagating along x direction can have the following pairs of E and
B
(a) Ex, By
(b) Ex , Bz
(c) Bx ,Ey
(d) Ez , By
Answers:
1. (A) b OR (B) d 2. D 3. B 4. D
8. PROPERTIES OF ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
In an electromagnetic wave both the electric and magnetic fields are perpendicular to the direction of
propagation, that is why electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature. Electromagnetic waves carry
energy as they travel through space and this energy is shared equally by the electric and magnetic
fields. Energy density of an electromagnetic wave is the energy in unit volume of the space through
which the wave travels.
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1. The electromagnetic waves propagated perpendicular to both E and B. The electromagnetic waves
travel in the direction of
⃗⃗⃗ . 𝐵
(i)𝐸 ⃗ (𝑖𝑖)𝐸⃗ 𝑥 𝐵
⃗ ⃗ . 𝐸⃗
(𝑖𝑖𝑖)𝐵 ⃗ 𝑥 𝐸⃗
(𝑖𝑣)𝐵
2. The fundamental particle in an electromagnetic wave is
(a) Photon
(c) Electron
(b) Phonon
(d) Proton
3. Electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature is evident by
(a) Polarisation
(c) Interference
(b) Reflection
(d) diffraction
4. (A) For a wave propagating in a medium, identify the property that is independent of the others.
(a) Velocity
(c) Frequency
(b) Wavelength
(d) All these depend on each other
OR
(B) The electric and magnetic fields of an electromagnetic waves are
(a) in opposite phase and perpendicular to each other
(b) In opposite phase and parallel to each other
(c) In phase and perpendicular to each other.
(d) In phase and parallel to each other.

Answer:
1. b 2. a3. a4.(A) c OR (B) c
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9. ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
The beauty of a coral reef, the warm radiance of sunshine, the sting of sunburn, the X-ray revealing a broken bone,
even microwave popcorn- all are brought to us by electromagnetic waves. It is worth noting at the outset that the
general phenomenon of electromagnetic waves was predicted by theory before it was realized that light is a form
of electromagnetic wave. The prediction was made by James Clerk Maxwell in the mid-19th century when he
formulated a single theory combining all the electric and magnetic effects known by scientists at that time.
“Electromagnetic waves” was the name he gave to the phenomena his theory predicted.
An electromagnetic wave has a frequency ‘𝜈’ and a wavelength ‘λ’ associated with it and travels at the speed of light
‘c’. The relationship among these wave characteristics is
𝑐 = 𝜈𝜆
Thus, for all electromagnetic waves, the greater the frequency, the smaller the wavelength.

1. Which of the following electromagnetic radiations have the longest wavelength?

(a) X-rays
(b) γ-rays
(c) Microwaves
(d) Radiowaves
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2. If a source is transmitting electromagnetic waves of frequency 8.2 × 106 Hz, the wavelength of electro-
magnetic wave transmitted from the source the source is
(a) 36.6 m
(b) 18.8 m
(c) 42.8 m
(d) 58 m

3. Light can travel in vacuum due to its

(a) Transverse nature
(b) Electromagnetic nature
(c) Longitudinal nature
(d) Both (a) and (c)

4. (A) Which of the following is the best method for production of infrared waves?
a) Bombardment of metal by high energy electrons
b) Radioactive decay of nucleus
c) Magnetron valve
d) Vibration of atoms and molecules
OR
(B) Wavelength of infrared radiations is
(a) Shorter (b) longer
(c) Infinite (d) zero

Answers;
1. d
2. a
3. b
4. (A) a
OR
(B) b

10. ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES

Electromagnetic waves are classified into categories such as radio, infrared, ultraviolet, and so on, so that we can
understand some of their similarities as well as some of their differences.
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1. Which of the following electromagnetic radiations have the longest wavelength?

(a) X-rays
(b) γ-rays
(c) Microwaves
(d) Radio waves.

2. (A) Why does a microwave oven heat up a food item containing water molecules most efficiently?
(a) Microwaves are heat waves, so always produce heating
(b) Infrared waves produce heating in a microwave oven
(c) Energy from the microwaves is transferred efficiently to the kinetic energy of water molecules at their
resonant frequency.
(d) The frequency of microwaves has no relation with natural frequency of water molecules.
OR

(B). Microwaves are used in

(a) Radar system for aircraft navigation

(b) Long-distance communication systems via geostationary satellites
(c) Microwave ovens
(d) All of the above

3. The magnetic field in a plane electromagnetic wave is given by By = 2 x 10-7 sin (0.5 x 103 x + 1.5 x 1011
t). This electromagnetic wave is
(a) A visible light
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(b) An infrared wave

(c) A microwave
(d) A radio wave

4. Consider the following types of electromagnetic radiation radiowaves, infra-red, visible light. Which of
the following statements are correct?
(1) Only radio waves can be used to transmit audio information.
(ii) Only infrared radiation is emitted by very hot object.
(iii) Only visible light can be detected by humans.
(a) Only (i) is correct
(b) Only (ii) is correct
(c) Only (iii) is correct
(d) None of the above is correct

Answers:
1. (d)
2. (A) (c)
OR
(B) (d)
3. (c)
4. (d)

ONE MARK QUESTIONS

1. Name the part of the electromagnetic spectrum whose wave length lies in the range 10-10m and
give its one use..

Answer: X rays, diagnostic tool in medicine.

2. What is the frequency of electromagnetic waves produced by oscillating charge of frequency

𝜈=105Hz and also name the electromagnetic wave?
Ans. Radio waves, 104Hz – 108Hz
3. Write two uses of microwaves.
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Ans. (i) In Radar Communication (ii) In analysis of molecular and atomic structure
4. How are infrared waves produced? What is the range of their wavelength?
Ans. Hot objects and molecules, 7X10-7 m to 10-3 m
5. Which part of electromagnetic spectrum is used in RADAR systems? [Delhi 2010]
Ans. Micro Waves
6. Which part of electromagnetic spectrum has largest penetrating power?
Ans : Y- rays have highest frequency range and highest penetrating power .

7. Arrange the following in descending order of wavelength. X-rays, radiowaves, blue light, infrared
light. [All India 2010]
Ans. Radiowaves> Infrared> Blue light > X-Ray

8. Which of the following has the shortest wavelength? Microwaves, ultraviolet rays, X-rays
Ans . X- ray has shortest wavelength.

9. Express the velocity of propagation of an electromagnetic waves in terms of the peak value of the
electric and magnetic fields.
Ans. Velocity of propagation of EM wave in terms of peak values of electric and magnetic field
vectors, c= E0 / B0

10.Write the following radiations in ascending order in respect of their frequencies X-rays,
microwaves, ultraviolet rays and radio waves.
Ans.radiowaves.<microwaves< ultraviolet rays < X-Rays

11..Name the electromagnetic radiation which can be produced by a klystron or a magnetron valve.
Ans. Micro waves

12. State the reason why microwaves are best suited for long distance transmission of signals.
Ans. Due to Shorter wavelength is suitable for long distance transmission

13. Why is ozone layer on top of the stratosphere crucial for human survival?
Ans. Protect from U-V Rays

14. Write the SI unit of displacement current?

Ans. Ampere
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15. What physical quantity is same for X-rays of wavelength 10-10 m, red light of wavelength 6800 Å
and radio wave of wavelength 500 m?
Ans. Velocity in vacuum

16. Name the electromagnetic waves which

(i) maintain the earth’s warmth and (ii) are used in aircraft navigation.
Ans. (i) infrared (ii) microwave
17. What is the relationship between magnitude of magnetic field and electric field in case of
electromagnetic waves from Maxwell's equations?

Answer: E/B = c

ASSERTION-REASON TYPE QUESTIONS

In the following questions, mark the correct choice as:

(a) Both assertion and reason are true and the reason is a correct explanation of the assertion.

(b) Both assertion and reason are true but the reason is not a correct explanation of the
assertion.

(c) Assertion is true but the reason is false.

(d) Both assertion and reason are false.

1. A: Different electromagnetic waves differ considerably in their mode of interaction with matter.
R: Different electromagnetic waves have different wavelength or frequency

Answer: (b)

2. A: All electromagnetic waves travel through vacuum with same speed but they have different
wavelength or frequency.
R: The wavelength of the electromagnetic waves is often correlated with the characteristic size of the
system that produces and radiates them.

Answer: (a)

3. A: High frequency electromagnetic waves are detected by some means based on the physical
effects they produce on interacting with matter.
R: The oscillating fields of an electromagnetic wave can accelerate charges and can produce
oscillating currents therefore, an apparatus designed to detected waves is based on this fact.
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Answer: (a)

4. A: Infrared waves are often called heat waves.

R: Infrared waves vibrate not only the electrons, but entire atoms or molecules of a substance which
increases the internal energy and temperature of the substance.

Answer: (a)

5. A: Optical and radio telescopes are built on the ground but X-ray astronomy is possible only from
satellites orbiting the earth.
R: Atmosphere absorbs X-rays, while visible and radio waves can penetrate it.
Answer: (a)

6. A: In an EM wave the magnitude of the electric field vector is more than the magnitude of the
Magnetic field vector.
R: Energy of the EM wave is shared equally between the electric and magnetic fields.

Answer: (b)

7. A: When cooking in microwave ovens, metal containers are used.

R: Energy of the microwaves can be easily transferred to the food through metal.
Answer: (d)

8. A: Food is cooked faster by microwaves than by conventional gas burner.

R: Microwaves have more energy than heat waves.
Answer: (c)

9. A: Microwaves are commonly used in radar to locate flying objects.

R: Microwaves have smaller wavelength than radio waves.
Answer: (a)

10. A: A: In an electromagnetic wave the energy density in electric field is equal to energy density in
magnetic field.
R: Electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature.
Answer: (b)

11. A: In an electromagnetic wave the energy density in electric field is equal to energy density in
magnetic field.
R: Electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature.
Answer: (b)

12. Assertion. Dipole oscillations produce electro- magnetic waves.

Reason. Accelerated charge produces electromagnetic waves. [AIIMS 2007]

Answer: (a)
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13. Assertion. A charge moving in a circular orbit can produce electromagnetic wave.

Reason. The source of electro- magnetic wave should be in accelerated motion.

Answer: (a)

14. Assertion. Electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature.

Reason. The electric and magnetic fields of an em. wave are perpendicular to each other and also
perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. [AIIMS 2010]
Answer: (a)

15. Assertion. Electromagnetic radiations exert pressure.

Reason. Electromagnetic waves carry both momentum [AIIMS 13] and energy.
Answer : (a)

16. Assertion. When a charged particle moves in a circular path, it produces electromagnetic wave.

Reason. Charged particle has acceleration. [AIIMS 16]

Answer :( a)

2 MARKS QUESTIONS

1.(a) How does oscillating charge produce electromagnetic waves?

(b) Sketch a schematic diagram depicting oscillating electric and magnetic fields of an EM wave
propagating along positive X-direction.
Ans. (a) The oscillating charge produces electric field and oscillating electric field produces
magnetic fields which is then produces an oscillating emf. A changing electric field produces a
magnetic field produces and changing magnetic field produces a electric field, the result is a wave of
electric and magnetic fields that can propagate through space. This propagating field are called
EMW.
(b) EMW
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2.(i) How are electromagnetic waves produced?

(ii) How do you convince yourself that electromagnetic waves carry energy and momentum?

Ans (i) The oscillating charge produces electric field and oscillating electric field produces magnetic
fields which is then produces an oscillating emf. A changing electric field produces a magnetic field
produces and changing magnetic field produces a electric field, the result is a wave of electric and
magnetic fields that can propagate through space. This propagating field are called EMW.
(ii)according to quantum theory electromagnetic radiation is a made up of mass less particles called
photon. Momentum of photon is expressed
P=E/C
Thus I convinced that electromagnetic radiation can carry energy and momentum.
3. (i)The charging current for a capacitor is 0.25 A. what is the displacement current across its
plates?
(ii) A variable frequency a.c source is connected to a capacitor. Will the displacement current
increase or decrease with increasing frequency?

Ans.(i) 0.25 Amp

(ii) Increases

4.(i) Name the Maxwell’s equation among the four which shows that the magnetic monopole does not
exist?
(ii) Give reason for decrease or increase in velocity of light, when it moves from air to glass or glass
to air respectively?

Ans. (i) Gauss’s theorem of Magnetism

(ii) The velocity of light depends on ε & μ of the medium.

5.A parallel plate capacitor is being charged by a time varying current. Explain briefly how amperes circuital
law is generalized to incorporate the effect due to the displacement current.
Ans:- Let us consider that a capacitor is being charged, There is a conduction current I in to plate , but out of
A no there is no Conduction current. Similarly there is no conduction current in to B. Therefore Kirchhoff’s
law seems to fail; as it is a series circuit so current must be same in all parts of the circuit. Maxwell resolved
this problem by stating that as the capacitor charges, a changing electric field (hence electric flux) is set-up
between the plates of the capacitor. This changing electric field is equivalent to an electric current, known as
displacement current (ID).we know the electric field between the plates
𝑑𝜙𝐸
∮ 𝐵. 𝑑𝑙=𝜇0 ( I + 𝜀0 𝑑𝑡
)
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6. What is meant by transverse nature of electromagnetic wave? Draw a diagram showing the
propagation of an electromagnetic wave along the x direction, indicating clearly the directions of the
oscillating electric and magnetic fields associated with it. (CBSE-2010,2008)

Ans:-

E.M. waves are transverse in nature i,e, E & B are perpendicular to each other as well as
perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave. E & B are related as follows -
𝐸0 𝐸
= 𝑐,or =𝑐
𝐵0 𝐵

7.Optical and radio telescopes are built on the ground while X- ray astronomy is possible only from satellites
orbiting the Earth. Why?
Ans.The earth’s atmosphere is transparent to visible light and radio waves but absorbs X-rays. Satellites
orbiting the earth at a height of 36000 km, where atmosphere is very thin and X-rays are not absorbed.
8.The small ozone layer on top of the stratosphere is crucial for human survival. Why?
Ans.Ozone layer absorbs ultraviolet radiation from the sun and prevent these radiations from
reaching the earth which causes cancer.
9. The oscillating magnetic field in a plane electromagnetic wave is given by
BY = 8 X 10-6 sin (2 x 1011 t + 300𝜋𝑥)] T
(a) Calculate the wavelength of electromagnetic wave?
(b) Write down the expression for the oscillating electric field.
2
Ans. a. 𝜆 = 3 𝑐m,
b. EZ = 2400 sin (2 x 1011 t + 300𝜋𝑥)
10. In an electromagnetic wave propagating along x- direction, the magnetic field oscillates at a
frequency of 3X1010 HZ and has an amplitude of 10-7 Tesla acting along the y-direction.
(i) what is the wavelength of electromagnetic wave ?
(ii) write the expression representing the corresponding oscillating electric field.

Ans. (i) 𝜆 = 10-2 m

(ii) Ez = 30 sin (6𝜋 x 1010 t - 2𝜋 x 102x)

11. What is the missing term in ampere Circuital law?

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Ans. This is the missing term in Ampere's circuital law and known as displacement current , The
source of a magnetic field is not just the conduction electric current due to flowing charges, but also
the time rate of change of electric field.
12.Is displacement current real?
Ans. The displacement current is not a “real” current, in the sense that it does not describe
charges flowing through some region. However, it acts just like a real current.
13. What is the direction of displacement current?
Ans. The direction of the displacement current Id is in the direction of change of electric field. So for
a charging capacitor, for which the magnitude of E is increasing, the direction of Id is in the direction
of the increase of field.
14. Why infrared waves are also called as heat waves?
Answer: Infrared radiations get readily absorbed by water molecules in most materials. This increases their
thermal motion and heats them up. That is why infrared radiations are often referred to as heat waves.

3 MARKS QUESTIONS

1.a) Which of the following if any, can act as a source of electromagnetic waves?
(i) A charge moving with constant velocity.
(ii) A charge moving in circular orbit. (iii)A charge at rest. Give reason
(b) Identify the part of electromagnetic spectrum to which the waves of frequency
(i) 1020 Hz (ii) 109 Hz belong

Ans. a) can’t produce EM waves because no acceleration.

(ii) It is accelerated motion - can produce EM. Waves.
(iii)Can’t produce EM waves because no acceleration.
b) (i) Gamma rays.
(ii) Micro waves

2. Electromagnetic waves with wavelength,

(i) 1are used to treat muscular strain.
(ii) 2 are used by a FM radio station for broadcasting
(iii) 3 are produced by bombarding metal target by high speed electrons
Identify and name the part of electromagnetic spectrum to which these radiation belong.
Arrange these wave lengths, in decreasing order of magnitude.
Ans.(i) 1- Infra-red radiation.
(ii) 2 - VHF / Radio waves
(iii) 3 - X – rays
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3.The electric field of a plane electromagnetic wave in vacuum is represented by

EX = 0 EY = 0.5cos [2π x 108 (t – x/c)], EZ =0
(i) What is the direction of propagation of electromagnetic wave?
(ii) Determine the wavelength of the wave.
(iii) compute the component of oscillating magnetic field.
Ans.(i) + x-direction
(ii) λ = 3.0 m
(iii) BZ = 10-8cos [2π x 108 (t – x/c)]

4.A parallel plate capacitor made of circular 2 plates each of radius 10 cm has a capacitance 200pF.
The capacitor is connected to a 200V ac supply with an angular frequency of 200 rad/s.
a) What is the rms value of conduction current
b) Is the conduction current equal to displacement current
c) Peak value of displacement current
d) Determine the amplitude of magnetic field at a point 2cm from the axis between the plates
Ans. a) Irms = 8μA
b) Ic = Id
c) I0 = 11.312 x 10-6 A
d) B = 4.525 x 10-12 T

5. Write the order of frequency range and one use of the following e. m radiations.
(i) Microwaves ii) Ultra-violet rays iii) gamma rays
Ans: (i) Microwaves :- 108 to 1012 Hz approx used in radars/microwave ovens ii) Ultra violet rays:-
1015 to 1018 Hz approx. sterilizing the medical instruments
iii) Gamma rays:- 1018 to 1022 Hz in radio therapy, treating cancer and tumors.
6. How the following e.m radiations are produced? Mention one use of them.
(i) radio waves
(ii) Infra red rays
(iii) x rays
i) radio waves produced by oscillating circuits having inductor and capacitor. Used in radio and TV
communication.
ii) infra red rays: produced by all hot bodies treating muscular strains/ solar appliances etc.,
(iii) X rays: produced when high energy electrons bombards metals. To detect fracture in bones/
study crystal structure
7. Draw a sketch showing the propagation of the electromagnetic wave, including the direction of the
oscillating electric and magnetic fields., when its travelling in x-direction. How are the magnitudes of
the electric and magnetic fields related to the velocity of the E M wave?
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Answer:
E/B=c

8. A capacitor of capacitance C is being charged by connecting it across a DC source along with an

ammeter. Will the ammeter show a momentary deflection during the process of charging? If so, how
would you explain the momentary deflection and resulting continuity of current in the circuit? Write
the expression for the current inside the capacitor.
Answer: Yes the ammeter will show a momentary deflection. The momentary deflection is due to
the flow of electrons in the circuit during the charging process. During this process the electric
field between the capacitor plates is changing and hence a displacement current flows in the gap.
Hence we can say that there is a continuity of current in the circuit.
9. Name the electromagnetic waves with their wavelength range which are used for
(i) FM radio broadcast
(ii) Detection of fracture in bones
(iii) Treatment of muscular strain

Answer: Electromagnetic waves Wavelength range

(i) Radio waves > 0.1m

(ii) X-rays 1 nm – 10-3 nm

(iii) Infrared waves 1 mm – 700 nm

10. An EM wave travelling through a medium has electric field vector. Ey= 4 × 105cos (3.14 × 108t – 1.57
x) N/C. Here x is in m and t in s. Then find:
(i) Wavelength
(ii) Frequency
(iii) Direction of propagation
(iv) Speed of wave
(v) Refractive index of medium
(vi) Amplitude of magnetic field vector.
Answer: EY =4x105cos(3. 14 × 108t – 1.57 x) N/C

(i) 𝜈 =5x107Hz
(ii) λ =4m
(iii) Along y axis
(iv) V=3x108m/s
(v) µ=1
(vi) B0=1.34X10-3T
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SELECT RESPONSE TYPE QUESTIONS

MCQ’s(DIRECT &EASY)
1. Which of the following has minimum wavelength?
(a) Blue light
(b) γ-rays
(c) infrared rays
(d) microwave
Answer: b
Explanation:
(b) γ-rays have maximum frequency so minimum wavelength among electromagnetic waves.
2. Which of the following has maximum penetrating power?
(a) Ultraviolet radiation
(b) Microwaves
(c) γ-rays
(d) Radio waves
Answer: c
Explanation:
(c) γ-rays have maximum frequency and energy of proton, therefore maximum penetrating power.

3. Electromagnetic waves travelling in a medium having relative permeability μr = 1.3 and relative
permittivity Er = 2.14. The speed of electromagnetic waves in medium must be
(a) 1.8 × 108 ms-1
(b) 1.8 × 104ms1
(c) 1.8 × 106ms1
(d) 1.8 × 10² ms-1

Answer: a
Explanation: (a) speed of electromagnetic waves

4. In electromagnetic waves the phase difference between electric and magnetic field vectors are
(a) zero
(b) π4
(c) π2
(d) π
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Answer: a
Explanation: (a) Electric and magnetic field vectors always vary in same phase.

5. The quantity 1/√ μ0ε0 represents

(a) speed of sound
(b) speed of light in vacuum
(c) speed of electromagnetic wave in medium
(d) inverse of speed of light in vacuum

Answer: b
Explanation: (b) Speed of light in vacuum, c=1/√ε0μ0

6. In electromagnetic wave if ue and um are mean electric and magnetic energy densities
respectively, then

Answer: a
Explanation: (a) Energy is equally distributed among electric field and magnetic field

7. Which of the following is called heat radiation?

(a) X-rays
(b) γ-rays
(c) Infrared radiation
(d) Microwave

Answer: c

8. From Maxwell’s hypothesis, a changing electric field gives rise to

(a) an electric field.
(b) an induced emf.
(c) a magnetic field.
(d) a magnetic dipole.

Answer: c
Explanation: (c) A changing electric field gives rise to a magnetic field.

9. Electromagnetic waves are transverse in nature is evident by

(a) polarization.
(b) Interference,
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(c) reflection.
(d) Diffraction.

Answer: a
Explanation: (a) Only transverse waves can be polarised.

10. Which of the following are not electromagnetic waves?

(a) Cosmic rays
(b) γ-rays
(c) β-rays
(d) X-rays

Answer: c
Explanation: (c) β-rays consist of electrons which are not electromagnetic nature.

11. 10 cm is a wavelength corresponding to the spectrum of

ia) infrared rays
(b) ultraviolet rays
(c) microwaves
(d) X-rays

Answer: c
Explanation: (c) Microwaves have wavelength around 10 cm.

12. If E and B represent electric and magnetic field vector of the electromagnetic waves then the
direction of propagation of the electromagnetic wave is that of

Answer: c
Explanation: (c) E ×B

13. The structure of solids is investigated by using

(a) cosmic rays
(b) X-rays
(c) γ-rays
(d) infrared rays

Answer: b
Explanation: (b) X-rays are used to investigate structure of solids.
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14. The condition under which a microwave over heats up a food item containing water molecules
most efficiently is
(a) The frequency of the microwaves must match the resonant frequency of the water molecules.
(b) The frequency of the microwaves has no relation with natural frequency of the water molecules.
(c) Microwaves are heat waves, so always produce heating.
(d) Infrared waves produce heating in a microwave oven.

Answer: a
Explanation:
(a) When frequency of microwave matches with frequency of water molecules i.e., resonant
condition. Maximum energy is transferred to water molecules as their K.E. energy.

15. Which radiations are used in treatment of muscle ache?

(a) Infrared
(b) Ultraviolet
(c) Microwave
(d) X-rays

Answer: a
Explanation:
(a) Infrared radiations are used in the treatment of muscle ache.

16. The correct option, if speeds of gamma rays, X-rays and microwave are Vg, Vx and
Vm respectively will be.
(a) Vg >Vx >Vm
(b) Vg <Vx <Vm
(c) Vg >Vx >Vm
(d) Vg = Vx = Vm

Answer: d
Explanation: (d) All electromagnetic waves travel with the speed of light in space.

17. Waves in decreasing order of their wavelength are

(a) X-rays, infrared rays, visible rays, radio waves
(b) radio waves, visible rays, infrared rays, X-rays.
(c) Radio waves, infrared rays, visible rays, X-rays.
(d) Radio waves, ultraviolet rays, visible rays, X-rays.

Answer: c

18.To which part of the electromagnetic spectrum does a wave of frequency 5 x 1019 Hz belong?
(a) β-rays (b)Y- Rays (c) Radio waves (d) x rays
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Ans. Y- Rays
19.To which part of the electromagnetic spectrum does a wave of frequency 3 x 1013 Hz belong?
(a) Infra-red waves (b)Y- Rays (c) Radio waves (d) x rays
Ans. Infra-red waves
20.Write the condition under which an electron will move undeflected in the presence of crossed
electric and magnetic fields.

(a) v = B/E (b) v = E 0 (c) v = B/0 (d) v = E/B

Ans.v = E / B
21. A magnetic field can be produced by

(a) moving charge (b)a changing electric field

(c) none of them (d) both of them

22. Dimensions of 1/√ue0 is

(a)L/T (b) T/L (c) L²/T² (d) T²/L²

Answer : a

23. Electromagnetic waves are produced by

(a) a static charge (b)a moving charge (c)an accelerating charge (d) charge less particles

(a) moving charge (b)a changing electric field (c) none of them (d) both of them

24. Name the part of the electromagnetic spectrum whose wave length lies in the range 10-10m.

(a) Micro waves (b) X rays (c) Y rays (d) UV rays

Answer : b

25. A plane electromagnetic wave is incident on a material surface. The wave delivers momentum p
and energy E.

(a) p=0,E=0 (b) p≠0 E=0 (c) p≠0,E≠0 (d)p=0,E ≠0

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Answer :c

26. Which of the following laws was modified by Maxwell by introducing the displacement current?

(a) Gauss's Law (b) Amperes law

(c) Biot-Savarts law (d) Coulombs law

Answer : b

27. Choose the wave relevant to telecommunication

(a)Ultra Violet (b) Infrared

(c) Micro wave (d) Visible light

Answer: c

28. Which of the following E M Wave has the highest wave length?

(a) X-ray (b) UV rays

(c) Infrared (d) Micro waves

Answer: d

SELF ASSESSEMENT PAPER

SUBJECT: PHYSICS THEORY
ELECTRO MAGNETIC WAVES
Time allowed:3 hours Maximum marks:55

General Instructions:
(i) The Question paper contains 42 questions. All questions are compulsory.
(ii) The question paper is divided in to 6sections: Section A, B,C,D,E ,F and G.
(iii) Section A –Question numbers 1 to 16 are Multiple Choice (MCQ) type
questions. Each question carries 1 mark.
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(iv)Section B- Question numbers 17 to 19 are Very Short Answer type questions.

Each question carries 2 marks.
(v)Section C- Question numbers 20 to 24 are Very Short Answer type questions.
Each question carries 1 mark.
(vi)Section D- Question numbers 25 and 26 are Case Based type questions. Each
question carries 4 marks.
(vii) Section E -Question numbers 27 and 28 are Short Answer type questions.
Each question carries 3 mark.
(viii) Section F-Question numbers 29 to 42 are Multiple Choice (MCQ) type
questions. Each question carries 1 mark.
(ix) As per CBSE Curriculum no 5 marks questions for chapter Electro Magnetic
Waves.
(x)There is no overall choice. However, an internal choice has been provided in
few questions in all sections except Section A and Section F .
(xi) Use of calculator is NOT allowed.

SECTION A
1. The phase difference between electric field E and magnetic field B in an electromagnetic wave
propagating along z-axis is
(a) zero (b) 𝜋
𝜋 𝜋
(c) 2 (d) 4

2. Wavelength of infrared radiations is

a) shorter (b) longer
(c) infinite (d) zero
3.Light with an energy flux of 20 W/cm² 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 minutes
is
(a) 36 x 10 -5 kg m/s
(b) 108 x 104 kg m/s

(c) 36 x 10 -4 kg m/s

(d) 1.08 x 107 kg m/s

4 . If we want to produce electromagnetic waves of wavelength 500 km by an oscillating charge; then

frequency of oscillating charge must be

(a)167 Hz
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(b) 500 Hz

(c) 600 Hz

(d) 15 Hz

⃗⃗⃗ and 𝐵
5. A plane electromagnetic wave propagating along x direction can have the following pairs of 𝐸 ⃗

(a) Ey,Bx

(b) Ex, By

(c) Ey,Bz

(d) Ez,Bx

6. A plane electromagnetic wave of energy U is reflected from the surface. Then the momentum
transferred by electromagnetic wave to the surface is

(a) 0

(b)2U/c

(c) U/c

(d)U/2c

7. An electromagnetic wave radiates outwards from a dipole antenna, with E, as the amplitude of its
electric field vector E, which transports significant energy from the source falls off as

(a) 1/r2

(b)1/r

(c)1/r3

(d) remains constant

8. An electromagnetic wave of frequency 3.0 MHz passes from vacuum into a dielectric medium with
relative permittivity = 4 .Then

(a) Wavelength is doubled and frequency remains unchanged

(b) Wavelength is doubled and frequency becomes half

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(c) Wavelength is halved and frequency remains unchanged

(d) Wavelength and frequency both remains unchanged

9. The pressure exerted by the electromagnetic wave is called as

(a) Light pressure

(b) Electric pressure

(c) Magnetic pressure

(d) Radiation pressure

10.The part of the electromagnetic spectrum which is detected by human eye is having wavelength as

(a) 380-700 nm

(b) 200-400 nm

(c) 600-400 nm

(d) 700-800 nm

11. The current which comes into play in the region, whenever the electric field and hence the electric
flux is changing with time is called

(a) Displacement current

(b) Conduction current

(c) Transient current

(d None of these

12. The magnetic field in a plane electromagnetic wave is given by B=2 x 10-7 sin (0.5 x 103 x + 1.5 x
1011t).This electromagnetic wave is

(a) a visible light

(b) An infrared wave

(c) a microwave

(d) a radio wave

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For questions number 13 to 16, two statements are given one labeled Assertion (A) and the do 16
labeled Reason (R). Select the correct answer to these questions from the codes (A), (B), (C) and (D)
as given below:

(A) If both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of
Assertion (A).

(B) If both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of
Assertion (A).

(C) If Assertion (A) is true and Reason (R) is false.

(D) If both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are false.

13. A: In an EM wave the magnitude of the electric field vector is more than the magnitude of the
magnetic field vector.
R: Energy of the EM wave is shared equally between the electric and magnetic fields.
14. A: When cooking in microwave ovens, metal containers are used.R: Energy of the microwaves
can be easily transferred to the food through metal.
15. A: In an EM wave the magnitude of the electric field vector is more than the magnitude of the
magnetic field vector.
R: Energy of the EM wave is shared equally between the electric and magnetic fields.

16. Assertion. Electromagnetic radiations exert pressure.

Reason. Electromagnetic waves carry both momentum and energy.

SECTION B

17. What is meant by displacement current? How is this current different from the conduction
current? A capacitor is being charged by a source of emf. Justify the continuity of current circuit.

18. Find the wavelength of electromagnetic waves of frequency 5x1019 Hz in free space. Give its two
applications by identifying the waves.

19. Write the order of frequency range and one use of the following e. m radiations.

i) Microwaves ii) Ultra-violet rays

SECTION C
20. How are radio waves produced? Mention one use of it.
21. Why infrared waves are also called as heat waves?
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22. State two properties of electromagnetic wave.

23. Find the wavelength of electro- magnetic waves of frequency 4×109 Hz in free space.
24. A plane electromagnetic wave of frequency 25 MHz travels in free space along the x-direction. At
a particular point in space and time, ⃗È =6.3 ĵ Vm-1. What is 𝐵
⃗ at this point?

SECTION D

25.
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1. Name the type of radiation that has used in luggage security checks at airports.
(a)γ-rays
(b) X-rays
(c) Microwaves
(d) Infrared rays
2. Some γ-rays emitted from a radioactive source has wavelength1.0x 10 -12m.Calculate the frequency
of the γ-rays
(a) 3x 10 20Hz
(b) 2x 10 12Hz
(c) 2.5x 10 5Hz
(d) 3.3x 10 12 Hz
3. Why does a microwave oven heat up a food item containing water molecules most efficiently?

(a) Microwaves are heat waves, so always produce heating

(b) Infrared waves produce heating in a microwave oven

(c) Energy from the microwaves is transferred efficiently to the kinetic energy of water molecules at
their resonant frequency.

(d) The frequency of microwaves has no relation with natural frequency of water molecules.
4. (A) Which of the following electromagnetic radiations have the longest wavelength?

(a) X-rays

(b) γ-rays

(c) Microwaves

(d) Radio waves.

OR
(B). If conducting current is 2A through a circuit the displacement current will be

(a) 1A

(b) 2A
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(c) 3A

(d) 4A
26. According to Maxwell, an accelerating charge produces electromagnetic waves. Consider a
charge oscillating harmonically with time. This is an example of an accelerating charge. This charge
produces an oscillating electric field in its neighborhood. This field, in turn, produces an oscillating
magnetic field in its neighborhood. The process continues because the oscillating electric and
magnetic fields set as sources of each other. Hence an electromagnetic wave originates from the
oscillating charge. The frequency of the electromagnetic wave is equal to the frequency of oscillation
of the charge. The energy carried by the wave comes from the source which makes the charge
oscillating. An electric dipole is a basic source of electromagnetic waves. An LC-circuit containing
inductance L and capacitance C produces electromagnetic waves of frequency, v = 1/2π/LC.
1. Electromagnetic waves are produced by
(a) Accelerated charged particle
(b) Charge at rest
(c) Charge in uniform motion
(d) None of these.
2. Light can travel in vacuum due to its
(a) Transverse nature
(b) Electromagnetic nature
(c) Longitudinal nature
(d) Both (a) and (c).
3. If a source is transmitting electromagnetic waves of frequency 8.2×106 Hz, the wavelength of
electro- magnetic wave transmitted from the source is
(a) 36.6 m
(b) 18.8 m
(c) 42.8 m
(d) 58 m
Q4. (A) Wavelength of infrared radiations is

(a) shorter (b) longer

(c) infinite (d) zero

OR
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(B) The quantity 1/√ μ0ε0 represents

(a) speed of sound
(b) speed of light in vacuum
(c) speed of electromagnetic wave in medium
(d) inverse of speed of light in vacuum

SECTION F
27. Name the parts of electromagnetic spectrum which is
(a) Suitable for radar systems
(b) Used to treat muscular strain
(c) Used as diagnostic tool in medicine.
Write in brief how the above waves can be produced.
(OR)
Identify the type of waves which are produced by the following way and write one application for
each.
(a) Radioactive decay of the nucleus
(b) Rapid acceleration and deceleration of electrons in aerials.
(c) Bombarding a metal target by high energy electrons.
(d)
28. An Electromagnetic waves travelling through a medium has electric field vector.
Ey= 4 × 105cos (3.14 × 108t – 1.57 x) N/C. Here x is in m and t
in s. Then find:
(i) Wavelength
(ii) Frequency
(iii) Direction of propagation
(iv) Speed of wave
(v) Refractive index of medium
(vi) Amplitude of magnetic field vector.

SECTION G

29. Which of the following is the best method for production of infrared waves?
a) Bombardment of metal by high energy electrons
b) Radioactive decay of nucleus
c) Magnetron valve

d) Vibration of atoms and molecule

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30. An Electromagnetic wave of wavelength λ = 10-3 m is used for satellite communication.

The wavelength of the electromagnetic wave belongs to
(A)Ultra violet radiation.
(B) Infra-red radiation.
(C) Micro wave radiation.
(D) Radio wave.

31. The Amplitude of the magnetic field of a harmonic electromagnetic wave in vacuum is Bo =
= 500 μ T. The amplitude of the electric field part of the wave is
(A)153 x 10 4 N/C
(B) 150 x 103 N/C
(C) 500 x 10-3 N/C
(D) 150 x 10-3 N/C

32. In an experiment, a tiny light ball is suspended in a transparent vacuum chamber freely by
shinning a Laser beam on it. The Property of Electromagnetic waves exhibited is
(A) Electromagnetic waves exert pressure.
(B) Transverse nature of the radiation.
(C) the wave nature of the Light
(D) Electromagnetic wave can travel in vacuum.

33. Samridhi fractured her leg by chance while playing. Her parents took to a doctor for
treatment. The doctor advised that an X-ray of leg is needed to be done for diagnosing the
problem. The Property of X-rays make it suitable for use in diagnosing and identifying the
fracture in bones is
(A) X-ray has longer wave length.
(B) Can pass through bones.
(C) Cannot pass through bones.
(D) Easily available for diagnosis.

34. The correct option, if speeds of Gamma rays , X rays and microwaves are vg, vx and vm
respectively will be
(a) vg > vx > vm
(b) vg < vx < vm
(c) vg > vm > vx
(d) vg = vx = vm

35. In the order of increasing frequency, the electromagnetic spectrum may be arranged as
a) Gamma rays ,X rays, visible light ,radio waves
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b) X rays, Gamma rays ,visible light, radio waves

c) Radio waves ,visible light, X rays, gamma rays
d) Radio waves, visible light ,Gamma rays, X-rays

36. The energy of photon of electromagnetic radiation of wavelength = 2000 A0 is :

(A) 1.76 x 10-18 J
(B) 0.99 x 10-18 J
(C) 0.54 x 10-18 J
(D) 0.63 x 10-18 J

37. The speed of light in air if an electromagnetic wave is travelling in air whose dielectric
constant is k = 1.006, will be :
(A) 3 x 108 m/s
(B) 3.88 x 108 m/s
(C) 2.5 x 108 m/s
(D) 4.6 xl08 m/s

38. The electromagnetic radiations used for water purification and eye surgery is
a) Infrared
b) Microwave
c) X-rays
d) None of the above

39. Name the physical quantity which remains same for micro waves of wave length one mm
and UV radiations of 1600Å in vacuum?
(A) Speed
(B) Frequency
(C) Wavelength
(D) Refractive Index

40. A plane electromagnetic wave travels in vacuum along z-direction. What can you say
about the direction of electric and magnetic field vector?
(A) The direction of electric and magnetic field vectors are along x-axis and y-axis
respectively.
(B) The direction of electric and magnetic field vectors are along z-axis and y-axis
respectively.
(C) The direction of electric and magnetic field vectors are along x-axis and z-axis
respectively.
(D) The direction of electric and magnetic field vectors are along y-axis and z-axis
respectively
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41. The electromagnetic wave which lies in the wavelength range of 0.1m to 1mm is
(A) Radio wave
(B) Microwave
(C) Infrared
(D )Visible light

42. A plane electromagnetic wave of frequency 25 MHz travels in free space along the x
direction. At a particular point in space and time the electric vector =5.2 V/m 𝑗̂. The magnetic
field B at this point is
(A) 2.1 x 10-8 T
(B )3.2 x 10-8 T
(C) 1.7 x 10-8 T
(D) 4.1 x 10-8 T

ANSWERS OF SELF ASSESSMENT PAPER

ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
1. (a) ZERO
2. (b) longer
3. (c) 36 x 10 -4 kg m/s
4. (c) 600 Hz
5. (c) Ey,Bz
6. (b)2U/c
7. (b)1/r
8. (c) wavelength is halved and frequency remains unchanged
9. (d) Radiation pressure
10. (a) 380-700 nm
11. (a) Displacement current
12. (c) a microwave
13. (b)
14. (d)
15. (b)
16. (a)
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17. Displacement current is the current which arises due to rate of change of electric field. Displacement
current is due to varying electric field. Conduction current is due to motion of electrons in the presence
of electric field. When the capacitor is being charged by a source of emf, the electric field between the
plates of capacitor changes with time. It produces a displacement current is whose magnitude is equal
to conduction current i,. Therefore the current is continuous.
𝑐 3𝑥108
18. λ = = = 6 𝑥 10-12 m = 0.06 Ao (X rays)
𝜈 5𝑥1019
X rays are used as diagnostic tool and to study crystal structure.
19. (i) 109 to 1012Hz (ii)1016to10Hz
20. Oscillating circuits, wireless communication like radio broadcasting, televisions, cellular phones.
21. Infrared radiations get readily absorbed by water molecules in most materials. This increases their
thermal motion and heats them up. That is why infrared radiations are often referred to as heat waves.
22. (i) The electromagnetic waves are produced by accelerated charges and do not require any material
medium for their propagation.
(ii) The directions of oscillations of Electric and Magnetic fields are perpendicular to each other as well as
perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave. So the electromagnetic waves are transverse in
nature.
23. Wavelength, λ=c/ 𝜈= 0.075 m
24. E/c=B=2.18x10-8 T
25. (1) (d) Infrared rays

(2) (a) 3x 10 20Hz

(3) (c) Energy from the microwaves is transferred efficiently to the kinetic energy of water
molecules at their resonant frequency.

(4) (A) (d) Radio waves

OR
(B) (b) 2A

26. (1) (a) Accelerated charged particle

(2) (b) Electromagnetic nature

(3) (a) 36.6 m
(4) (A) (b) longer
OR
(B) (a) speed of sound
27. (i) Microwave Production: klystron, magnetron, gun diode.
ii.) IR Production: Hot bodies, vibrations of atoms and molecules.
iii.) X-Ray Production: Bombarding high energy electrons on metal targets, X-Ray tube.
(Or)
i.) Gamma rays- Treatment of tumors.
ii.) Radio waves- Radio and TV communication.
ii.) X-Ray- Study of Crystals.
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28. EY =4x105cos(3. 14 × 108t – 1.57 x) N/C

(vii) 𝜈 =5x107Hz
(viii) λ =4m
(ix) Along y axis
(x) V=3x108m/s
(xi) µ=1
(xii) B0=1.34X10-3T
29. (d) Vibration of atoms and molecules
30. (C) Micro wave radiation.
31. (B) 150 x 103 N/C
32. (A) Electromagnetic waves exert pressure.
33. (C) Cannot pass through bones.
34. (d) vg = vx = vm
35. (c) Radio waves ,visible light, X rays, gamma rays
36. (B) 0.99 x 10-18 J
37. (A) 3 x 108 m/s
38. d) None of the above
39. (A) Speed
40. (A) The direction of electric and magnetic field vectors are along x-axis and y-axis
respectively.
41. (B) Microwave
42. (C) 1.7 x 10-8 T

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