Question

An electromagnetic wave is propagating towards the west. At a certain moment the direction of the magnetic field vector associated with this wave points vertically up. The direction of the electric field vector of this wave is:___________

Answer 1

Answer:

either +z direction or -z direction.

Explanation:

The direction of the electric field, in an electromagnetic wave always is perpendicular to the direction of the magnetic field and the direction of propagation of the wave.

You assume a system of coordinates with the negative x axis as the west direction, and the y axis as the up direction

In this case, the wave is propagating toward the west (- x direction), and the magnetic field vector points up (+ y direction), then, it is mandatory that the electric field vector points either +z direction or -z direction.