In EMF wave properties, the electric and magnetic fields are at what angle from each other in the far field?

In EMF wave properties, the electric and magnetic fields are at what angle from each other in the far field?

• A. 0 degrees
• B. 45 degrees
• C. 90 degrees
• D. 180 degrees

Answer: (C)

In the far field, electromagnetic waves are transverse, with both electric and magnetic fields oscillating perpendicular to the direction the wave is moving and perpendicular to each other. This makes the angle between the electric and magnetic fields a right angle. They also peak together in time, meaning they’re in phase. So the angle between the two fields is 90 degrees. The other angles would imply the fields are aligned or at an intermediate tilt, which doesn’t describe a propagating free-space wave in the far field. Near-field scenarios can be more complex, but far-field behavior is strictly perpendicular.

In the far field, electromagnetic waves are transverse, with both electric and magnetic fields oscillating perpendicular to the direction the wave is moving and perpendicular to each other. This makes the angle between the electric and magnetic fields a right angle. They also peak together in time, meaning they’re in phase. So the angle between the two fields is 90 degrees. The other angles would imply the fields are aligned or at an intermediate tilt, which doesn’t describe a propagating free-space wave in the far field. Near-field scenarios can be more complex, but far-field behavior is strictly perpendicular.