Practice question
Question
In electromagnetic wave theory, what ensures the symmetry between electric and magnetic fields in wave
propagation?
Explanation
**EM wave in vacuum** transverse, E and B perpendicular to propagation and to each other, E×B along propagation, in phase, E/B = c =3×10⁸ m/s, c =1/√(μ₀ ε₀), μ₀=4π×10⁻⁷ H/m, ε₀=8.85×10⁻¹² F/m. For E₀=45 V/m, B₀=E₀/c=45/3×10⁸=1.5×10⁻⁷ T=150 nT, illustrating B much smaller than E. Faraday’s law and the Ampere-Maxwell law together ensure symmetry, as a changing electric field induces a magnetic field and vice versa, sustaining wave propagation. Using c = fλ, E₀/B₀ = c, I_d = ε₀ dΦ_E/dt, and spectrum classification λ = c/f, evaluation yields Faraday’s and Ampere-Maxwell laws, illustrating EM wave transverse nature and Maxwell's displacement current concept.
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