Question

Solar radiation is:
(A) Transverse electromagnetic wave
(B) Longitudinal electromagnetic wave
(C) Stationary wave
(D) None of the above.

Answer 1

Hint
We know that the energy in the Sun is developed through continuous nuclear fusion reactions. In this fusion reaction, light Hydrogen atoms are combined and the Helium is produced. During this reaction, about 27 Million Electron Volts energy is produced. When this radiative energy is transferred from the Sun to the other objects, it is known as the “Solar Radiation.” This radiation moves in the form of a wave, also known as the Electromagnetic Waves. Examples of the electromagnetic wave are the radio waves, microwaves and many more.

Complete step by step solution :
Let us consider each option one by one-
Transverse electromagnetic waves are defined as the waves in an electric or magnetic field that vibrates along the transverse direction only (perpendicular to the direction of travel of the wave).
An example of this type of wave is solar radiation, as it vibrates along the transverse direction while traveling towards the Earth’s surface. Also, these types of waves do not need any medium to travel, they can travel in vacuum also.
Longitudinal electromagnetic waves are defined as the waves in an electric magnetic field that vibrates along the longitudinal direction only (parallel to the direction of travel of the wave), also they need the medium like air, water to travel.
The examples of this type of waves are sound waves and ultrasonic waves as they vibrate along the longitudinal direction only.
Stationary waves are the combination of two waves having the same amplitude but traveling in the opposite directions. Due to this, the interference of the waves occurs and they get either superimposed or canceled out. They are also known as the “standing waves” because their peak amplitude is always constant.
Therefore, solar radiation is a transverse electromagnetic wave and the correct option is-
(A) Transverse electromagnetic wave

Note:
The light from the sun is an electromagnetic wave because it does not need any medium to travel and also, they have their own electric and magnetic fields, which are constantly oscillating.