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⚛️ Physics  ·  Electromagnetic Waves  ·  NEET & JEE

Which characteristic of an EM wave changes when it passes from vacuum to glass?

Answer: Frequency remains same; wavelength and speed decrease.

  • A Frequency remains same; wavelength and speed decrease
  • B Speed stays same; frequency and wavelength change
  • C All three change
  • D Only frequency changes

Correct answer: A. Frequency remains same; wavelength and speed decrease

Explanation: When an EM wave enters a medium, its speed decreases (v = c/n), and wavelength decreases (λ' = λ/n), but the frequency remains unchanged (f = c/λ = v/λ').

Electromagnetic Wave: E ⊥ B ⊥ Direction of TravelpropagationE (electric field, vertical plane)B (magnetic field, horizontal plane, perpendicular to E)

In an electromagnetic wave, the oscillating electric field (E) and magnetic field (B) are perpendicular to each other and to the direction the wave travels - a purely transverse wave that needs no medium, unlike sound.

Concept context

Maxwell's equations, EM spectrum, properties, and applications of each band.

Read the full Electromagnetic Waves notes →