Verified Solution • 2025–26 Session moderate

QJEEM23Ph86a3: JEE Main 2023 Physics - Class 12 JEEM23Ph86a3 Solution: In an electromagnetic wave, at an instant and at particular…

In an electromagnetic wave, at an instant and at particular position, the electric field is along the negative zz -axis and magnetic field is along the positive xx -axis. Then the direction of propagation of electromagnetic wave is:

Multiple Choice Options

  • A at 45∘45^{\circ} angle from positive y-axis
  • B positive yy -axis
  • C negative y\mathrm{y} -axis
  • D positive z-axis

Step-by-Step Verified Solution

As the electric field is along the negative zz -axis and the magnetic field is along the positive xx -axis, the direction of propagation of the wave is given by the vector product E→×B→\overrightarrow{\mathrm{E}} \times \overrightarrow{\mathrm{B}} , which is in the direction of the negative yy -axis.

Using the right-hand rule, if you point your right thumb in the direction of the vector product E→×B→\overrightarrow{\mathrm{E}} \times \overrightarrow{\mathrm{B}} , your fingers will curl in the direction of the propagation of the wave. In this case, the fingers would curl in the direction of the negative yy -axis.

Therefore, the direction of propagation of the electromagnetic wave in this scenario is along the negative yy -axis.

Related Learning Resources & Exam Preparation