Verified Solution • 2025–26 Session moderate

QPages 338-339: Q8: HC Verma: Concepts of Physics - Volume 2 Electromagnetic Waves Pages 338-339: Q8 Solution: A free electron is placed in the path of a plane…

⚠️ Common Exam Traps & Conceptual Pitfalls

Students often assume the magnetic part of the Lorentz force acts immediately, but with $v=0$ the magnetic term vanishes. The electron’s first acceleration is purely along the electric field; only after gaining velocity does the magnetic force deflect the trajectory.

A free electron is placed in the path of a plane electromagnetic wave. The electron will start moving

Multiple Choice Options

  • A along the electric field
  • B along the magnetic field
  • C along the direction of propagation of the wave
  • D in a plane containing the magnetic field and the direction of propagation

Step-by-Step Verified Solution

**Answer:** (a) along the electric field. **Step-by-Step Explanation:** The electric force on the electron is along the electric field. The magnetic force is perpendicular. The initial acceleration is along E.

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