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UNIT ELECTROMAGNETIC
5 WAVES

ns
CHAPTER SNAPSHOT
5.1 Introduction a tio
5.1.1 Displacement current and Maxwell’s correction to Ampere's
circuital law
ic
5.1.3 Maxwell’s equations in integral form
bl

5.2 Electromagnetic waves

5.2.1 Production and properties of electromagnetic waves - Hertz
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experiment
5.2.2 Sources of electromagnetic waves
5.2.3 Electromagnetic spectrum
ra

5.3 Types of Spectrum Emission and Absorption Spectrum

Su

Fraunhofer lines.

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MUST KNOW DEFINITIONS www.nammakalvi.org

 Changing magnetic field with time at a point produces electric field.
 Changing electric field with time at a point produces magnetic field.
 Variation of electric and magnetic field perpendicular to each other produces EM disturbance
in space.
 Maxwell’s wave concept of displacement current which is similar to ordinary current, but
displacement current will flow through the dielectric.
 An accelerated charge is a source of EM radiation.
 The energy of EM waves is due to KE of the oscillating charge.
 The physical properties of EM wave are determined by their wavelength and not by their method

ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
of excitation.
EM Spectrum - Wavelength and Frequency range

ns
Name Source Wavelength (m) Frequency (Hz)
γ - rays
X - rays
Radioactive nuclei, nuclear reactions
High energy electrons suddenly
stopped by a metal target
a tio10–14 – 10–10
10–13 – 10–8
3×1022 – 3×1018
3×1021 – 1×1016
ic
Ultraviolet Atoms and molecules in an electrical 6×10–10 – 4×10–7 5×1017 – 7×1014
bl

discharge
Visible light Incandescent solids, Fluorescent 4×10–7 – 7×10–7 7×1014 – 4×1014
Pu

lamps
Infra red Molecules of hot bodies 8×10–7 – 5×10–5 4×1014 – 6×1013
Microwave Electronic device (vacuum tube) 10–3 – 0.3 3×1011 – 1×109
ra

Radio Charges accelerated through 10–1 – 104 3×109 – 3×104

frequency wave conducting wire
Su

Radiowaves
AM Band - 530 kHz - 1710 kHz ; AM - Amplitude modulation
SW Band - upto 54 MHz ; SW - Short wave
TV range - 54 MHz - 890 MHz ; TV - Television
FM range - 88 MHz - 108 MHz ; FM - Frequency modulation
Cellular phone - UHF (Ultra high frequency)

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S.No Waves Uses

1. Radio Radio, TV communications
2. Microwave Radar, Microwave ovens
Physiotherapy, weather forecasting, long distance object
3. IR
photograph, molecular structure
4. Visible Information about the world
Destroy bacteria, forensic labs, preserve food items, atomic
5. UV
structure
6. X-rays diagnostic tool in medicine, crystal structure studies
7. γ- rays Nuclear structure, treatment of cancer
Spectra types
Spectra

ns
Emission Absorption
1. Continuous - depends on temperature 1. Continous - Absorbs everything, except

tio
green light.
2. Line - characteristics of emitting 2. Line - Continuous spectrum of carbon arc
Unit 5

substance is obtained. (Fraunhofer lines)

a
3. Band - characteristics of molecule 3. Band - Used for making dyes.
ic
Example for continuous spectra - incandescent solids, liquids, carbon arc, filament lamps etc.
bl

line spectra - sodium in sodium vapour lamp and Hg in Hg vapour lamp etc.
Pu

Band spectra - Ca, Ba in bunsen flame and CO2, NH4, N2 gases in molecular state.

Formulae
ra

1
1. Velocity of EM wave in Vacuum C =
µ0 ε0
Su

µ - permeability of free space ; ε0 - permittivity of free space

1
2. Frequency of oscillation of charges between plates v =
2π LC
C = capacitance, L - inductance (small wire)
E
3. The speed of electromagnetic wave V v == 0
B0
E0 = Amplitude of oscillating electric filed ; B0 = Amplitude of oscillating magnetic field.
Power (P) Total electromagnetic energy
4. Intensity (I) = =
Surface Area (A) Surface Area (A) × time (t)
1
5. The average energy density of electromagnetic wave is u = ε0E2 = × B2
µ0

ε0 = Permittivity of free space ; µ0 = Permeability of free space
U Energy
6. Momentum Imparted by electromagnetic wave on the surface is p = =
c Velocity of light

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→ → d → →
7. Ampere's Maxwell Law : ∫ B⋅ dl = µ0 Ienclosed + µ0 ε0 dt ∫
E⋅d A
→ → d
8. Faraday's Law : ∫ E ⋅ dl = dt ΦB ; Φ B
- Magnetic flux.
→ → Qenclosed
9. Gauss's Law : ∫ E ⋅ dA = ε0
→ →
10. Ampere's circuital Law : ∫ B⋅ dl = µ 0 Ι 0 ; Ic - conduction current

11. Refractive Index of the medium µ = ε r µ r

Evaluation

ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
I. Multiple choice questions:

ns
1 5. Consider an oscillator which has a charged
1. The dimension of is particle and oscillates about its mean position
m 0 e0
with a frequency of 300 MHz. The wavelength

tio
(a) [L T−1] (b) [L2 T−2]
of electromagnetic waves produced by this
(c) [L−1 T] (d) [L−2 T2]
oscillator is
 [Ans. (b) [L2 T−2]]
a
(a) 1 m (b) 10 m
ic
2. If the amplitude of the magnetic field is (c) 100 m (d) 1000 m
3 × 10−6 T, then amplitude of the electric  [Ans. (a) 1 m]
bl

field for a electromagnetic waves is

(a) 100 V m−1 (b) 300 V m−1 6. The electric and the magnetic field, associated
Pu

with an electromagnetic wave, propagating

(c) 600 V m−1 (d) 900 V m−1
along X axis can be represented by
 [Ans. (d) 300 V m−1] → ∧ → ∧
(a) E = E 0 j and B = B0 k
3. Which of the following electromagnetic
ra

→ ∧ → ∧
radiation is used for viewing objects through (b) E = E k and B = B j
0 0
fog
Su

→ ∧ → ∧
(a) microwave (b) gamma rays (c) E = E i and B = B j
0 0
(c) X- rays (d) infrared → ∧ → ∧
(d) E = E j and B = B i
 [Ans. (d) infrared] 0 0
→ →
4. Which of the following are false for  [Ans. (b) E = E0k and B = B0 j ]
electromagnetic waves 7. In an electromagnetic wave in free space
(a) transverse the rms value of the electric field is
(b) mechanical waves 3 V m−1. The peak value of the magnetic field is
(c) longitudinal (a) 1.414 × 10−8 T (b) 1.0 × 10−8 T
(d) produced by accelerating charges (c) 2.828 × 10−8 T (d) 2.0 × 10−8 T
 [Ans. (c) longitudinal]  [Ans. (a) 1.414 × 10−8 T]

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8. During the propagation of electromagnetic
waves in a medium:
(a) electric energy density is double the
magnetic energy density
(b) electric energy density is half of the magnetic
energy density
(c) electric energy density is equal to the
magnetic energy density
(d) both electric and magnetic energy densities
are zero
 [Ans. (c) electric energy density is equal to
 the magnetic energy density]
9. If the magnetic monopole exists, then which of
the Maxwell’s equation to be modified?
13. Let E = E0 sin[106 × – ωt] be the electric field of
plane electromagnetic wave, the value of ω is
(a) 0.3 × 10−14 rad s−1
(b) 3 × 10−14 rad s−1
(c) 0.3 × 1014 rad s−1
(d) 3 × 1014 rad s−1 [Ans. (d) 3 × 1014 rad s−1]
14. Which of the following is not true for
electromagnetic waves?
(a) it transport energy
(b) it transport momentum
(c) it transport angular momentum
(d) in vacuum, it travels with different speeds
which depend on their frequency
[Ans. (d) in vacuum, it travels with different

ns
→ → Q
 E ⋅ d A = enclosed
(a) ∫
∈0
speeds which depend on their frequency]
15. The electric and magnetic fields of an

tio
→ →
(b) ∫ E ⋅ d A = 0 electromagnetic wave are
(a) in phase and perpendicular to each other
Unit 5

→ → d → →
(c) ∫ E ⋅ d A = µ 0 Ienclosed + µ 0 ∈0
a
dt ∫
E⋅dA
(b) out of phase and not perpendicular to each
ic
other
→ → d
(d) ∫ E ⋅ d l = − dt
ΦB (c) in phase and not perpendicular to each
bl

→ →
 ∫ E⋅ d A = 0 ]
[Ans. (b)  other
(d) out of phase and perpendicular to each other
Pu

10. A radiation of energy E falls normally on a

perfectly reflecting surface. The momentum [Ans. (a) in phase and perpendicular to each
transferred to the surface is other]
E
(a) (b) 2
E II. Short Answer Questions :
ra

c c
E 1. What is displacement current?
Su

(c) Ec (d) Ans. The displacement current can be defined as the

c2 E
 [Ans. (b) 2 ]
c which the electric field and the electric flux are
11. Which of the following is an electromagnetic
wave?
(a) α - rays (b) β - rays
(c) γ - rays (d) all of them
 [Ans. (c) γ - rays]
12. Which one of them is used to produce a
propagating electromagnetic wave?
(a) an accelerating charge
(b) a charge moving at constant velocity
(c) a stationary charge
(d) an uncharged particle
 [Ans. (a) an accelerating charge]
current which comes into play in the region in
changing with time.
2. What are electromagnetic waves?
Ans. (i) An electromagnetic wave is radiated by
an accelerated charge which propagates
through space as coupled electric and
magnetic fields, oscillating perpendicular
to each other and to the direction of
propagation of the wave.
(ii) Electromagnetic wave is a transverse wave.
They are non-mechanical wave and do not
require any medium for propagation.

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Sura’s ➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I
3. Write down the integral form of modified (ii) It also indicates that the electric field lines
Ampere’s circuital law. start from positive charge and terminate
Ans. Maxwell modified Ampere's law as where at negative charge. This implies that the
I = Ic + Id which means the total current enclosed electric field lines do not form a continuous
by the surface is sum of conduction current and closed path. In other words, it means that
displacement current. When a constant current isolated positive charge or negative charge
is applied, displacement current Id = 0 and hence can exist.
Ic = I. Between the plates, the conduction current (iii) Second equation has no name, law in
Ic = 0 and hence Id = I.
electrostatics. So this law can also be called
→ →
as Gauss’s law in magnetism. The surface
∫ B⋅ d S = µ 0 I = µ 0 (Ic + Id ) integral of magnetic field over a closed
4. Explain the concept of intensity of surface is zero. Mathematically,
→ →
electromagnetic waves. ∫ B⋅ d A→= 0  (No name)

ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
Ans. The energy crossing per unit area per unit
time and perpendicular to the direction of where B is the magnetic field. This
equation implies that the magnetic lines

ns
propagation of electromagnetic wave is called
the intensity. of force form a continuous closed path.
Intensity, I = [u] c or In other words, it means that no isolated

tio
magnetic monopole exists.
total electromagnetic energy (U)
I= (iv) Third equation is Faraday’s law of
Surface area (A) × time (t) electromagnetic induction. This law relates
a
Power (P) electric field with the changing magnetic
=
ic
Surface area (A) flux which is mathematically written as
→ → d
bl

5. What is meant by Fraunhofer lines? ∫ E ⋅ d l =− dt ΦB (Faraday’s law)

Ans. When the spectrum obtained from the Sun →
where E is the electric field. This equation
Pu

is examined, it consists of large number of

dark lines (line absorption spectrum). These implies that the line integral of the electric
dark lines in the solar spectrum are known as field around any closed path is equal to the
Fraunhofer lines. rate of change of magnetic flux through the
ra

closed path bounded by the surface.

III. Long Answer questions : (v) Fourth equation is modified Ampere’s
Su

circuital law. This is also known as Ampere

1. Write down Maxwell equations in integral – Maxwell’s law. This law relates the
form. magnetic field around any closed path to
Ans. Maxwell’s equations completely explain the the conduction current and displacement
behaviour of charges, currents and properties of current through that path.
electric and magnetic fields.
→ → d → →
(i) First equation is nothing but the Gauss’s
∫ B ⋅ d l = µ 0 I enclosed + µ 0 ε 0
dt ∫s
E ⋅ dA

law. It relates the net electric flux to net  (Ampere-Maxwell s law)

→
electric charge enclosed in a surface. where B is the magnetic field. This
Mathematically, it is expressed as equation shows that both conduction
→ → Q
and also displacement current produces
∫  E ⋅ d A = enclosed
ε0
(Gauss's law) magnetic field. These four equations
→ are known as Maxwell’s equations in
where E is the electric field and Qenclosed is electrodynamics. This equation ensures
the charge enclosed. the existence of electromagnetic waves.

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Sura’s ➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I
2. Write short notes on (a) microwave (b) X-ray
(c) radio waves (d) visible light spectrum.
Ans. (a) Microwaves : It is produced by
electromagnetic oscillators in electric
circuits. The wavelength range is 1 × 10–3
m to 3 × 10–1 m and frequency range is 3
× 1011 Hz to 1 × 109 Hz. It obeys reflection
and polarization. It is used in radar system
for aircraft navigation, speed of the vehicle,
microwave oven for cooking and very long
distance wireless communication through
satellites.
(b) X-rays : It is produced when there is
a sudden deceleration of high speed
electrons at high-atomic number target,
and also by electronic transitions
among the innermost orbits of atoms.
The wavelength range 10–13 m to 10–8 m
and frequency range are 3 × 1021 Hz to
1 × 1016 Hz. X-rays have more penetrating
power than ultraviolet radiation. X-rays
Unit 5
a
are used extensively in studying structures
of inner atomic electron shells and crystal
ic
structures. It is used in detecting fractures,
diseased organs, formation of bones and
bl
stones, observing the progress of healing
bones. Further, in a finished metal product,
Pu
it is used to detect faults, cracks, flaws and
holes.
(c) Radio waves : It is produced by oscillators
ra
in electric circuits. The wavelength range
is 1 × 10–1 m to 1 × 104 m and frequency
range is 3 × 109 Hz to 3 × 104 Hz. It obeys
Su
reflection and diffraction. It is used in
radio and television communication
systems and also in cellular phones to
transmit voice communication in the ultra
high frequency band.
(d) Visible light : It is produced by incandescent
bodies and also it is radiated by excited
atoms in gases. The wavelength range is 4
× 10–7 m to 7 × 10–7 m and frequency range
are 7 × 1014 Hz to 4 × 1014 Hz. It obeys the
laws of reflection, refraction, interference,
diffraction, polarization, photo-electric
effect and photographic action. It can be
used to study the structure of molecules,
arrangement of electrons in external shells
of atoms and sensation of our eyes.
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3. Discuss briefly the experiment conducted by
Hertz to produce and detect electromagnetic
spectrum.
Ans. (i) Maxwell’s prediction was experimentally
confirmed by Heinrich Rudolf Hertz in
1888. The experimental set up used is
shown in Figure.
(ii) It consists of two metal electrodes which
are made of small spherical metals. These
are connected to larger spheres and the
ends of them are connected to induction
coil with very large number of turns. This
is to produce very high electromotive force
(emf).
(iii) Since the coil is maintained at very high
potential, air between the electrodes gets
ns
ionized and spark (spark means discharge
of electricity) is produced.
tio
(iv) The gap between electrode (ring type –
not completely closed and has a small
gap in between) kept at a distance also
gets spark. This implies that the energy is
transmitted from electrode to the receiver
(ring electrode) as a wave, known as
electromagnetic waves.
Hertz apparatus
(v) If the receiver is rotated by 90° - then no
spark is observed by the receiver. This
confirms that electromagnetic waves are
transverse waves as predicted by Maxwell.
(vi) Hertz detected radio waves and also
computed the speed of radio waves which is
equal to the speed of light (3 × 108 m s–1).
4. Explain the Maxwell’s modification of
Ampere’s circuital law.
Ans. (i) The electric current passing through the
wire is the conduction current IC. This
current generates magnetic field around
the wire connected across the capacitor.
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(ii) Therefore, when a magnetic needle is kept
near the wire, deflection is observed. In S2
order to compute the strength of magnetic
field at a point, we use Ampere's circuital I I
+ –
law is used which states that ‘the line +q
→ –q
integral of the magnetic field B around
any closed loop is equal to μo times the
+ –
net current I threading through the area V
enclosed by the loop’. Ampere's law in Applying Ampere's circuital
equation form is
law - loop enclosing surface S2
→ →
∫ B⋅ d l = µ 0 I(t ) ...(1) (v) The right hand side of equation is zero
s
(iii) where μ0 is the permeability of free space. because the surface S2 no where touches

ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
the wire carrying conduction current and
P further, there is no current in between

ns
the plates of the capacitor (there is a
S1 discontinuity). So the magnetic field
at a point P is zero. Hence there is an

tio
I
+ –
I inconsistency between equation (5.4) and
equation (2). J. C.Maxwell resolved this
+q –q inconsistency as follows:
a
(vi) Due to external source (battery or cell),
ic
+ – the capacitor gets charged up because of
bl

V current flowing through the capacitor.

Applying Ampere's circuital This produces an increasing electric field
Pu

law - loop enclosing surface between the capacitor plates. So, there
must be a current associated with the
To calculate the magnetic field at a point changing electric field in between the
P near the wire as shown in Figure, let capacitor plates. In other words, the time
ra

us draw an amperean loop is drawn varying electric flux (or time varying
(circular loop) which encloses the surface electric field) existing between the plates
Su

S1 (circular surface). Therefore, using of the capacitor also produces a current

Ampere's circuital law (equation 1), known as displacement current.
→ →
∫ B ⋅ d l = µ 0 IC ...(2)
S2 d
S1
where Ic is the conduction current. →
E
(iv) Suppose the same loop is enclosed by I I
+ –
balloon shaped surface S2. This means that +q –q
the boundaries of two surfaces S1 and S2 are
same but shape of the enclosing surfaces
are different (first surface (S1) is circular + –
V
in shape and second one is balloon shaped
Applying Gauss’s law between
surface (S2)). As the Ampere’s law applied
for a given closed loop does not depend on the plates of the capacitor
shape of the enclosing surface, the integrals (vii) From Gauss’s law (refer Unit 1), the electric
will give the same answer. But by applying flux between the plates of the capacitor
Ampere’s circuital law (equation 1), (Figure) is

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Sura’s ➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I
→ → q (v) The speed of electromagnetic wave is
Φ E =  E. d A = EA =
∫∫ ε0
less than speed in free space or vacuum,
that is v < c. In a medium of refractive
where A is the area of the plates of capacitor.
The change in electric flux is index, µ = ε r µ r where εr is the relative
permittivity of the medium (also known
d Φ E 1 dq dq d ΦE as dielectric constant) and μr is the relative
= ⇒ = Id = ε0
dt ε 0 dt dt dt permeability of the medium.
where Id is known as displacement current. (vi) Electromagnetic waves are not deflected by
electric field or magnetic field.
(viii) The displacement current can be defined (vii) Electromagnetic waves can show
as the current which comes into play in interference, diffraction and can also be
the region in which the electric field and polarized.
the electric flux are changing with time.
(viii) The energy density of the electromagnetic
In other words, whenever the change in
wave is
electric field takes place, displacement
1 1 1 2
current is produced. Maxwell modified u = ε0 E 2 = B ; u = ε E2 = 1 B2

ns
2 2 µ0 0
Ampere's law as µ 0
→ →
(ix) The average energy density for

tio
 B⋅ d S = µ 0 (Ic +Id ) ...(4)
∫
electromagnetic wave,
where I = Ic + Id which means the total 1 2 1 1
Unit 5

2
current enclosed by the surface is sum u = 2 ε 0 E = 2 µ B
a
0
of conduction current and displacement
(x) The energy crossing per unit area per unit
ic
current. time and perpendicular to the direction
bl

(ix) When a constant current is applied, of propagation of electromagnetic wave is

displacement current Id = 0 and hence called the intensity.
Pu

Ic = I. Between the plates, the conduction Intensity, I = [u] c or

current Ic = 0 and hence Id = I. total electromagnetic energy (U)
I=
Surface area (A) × time (t)
5. Write down the properties of electromagnetic
ra

waves. Power (P)

=
Ans. Properties of electromagnetic waves : Surface area (A)
Su

(i) Electromagnetic waves are produced by any (xi) electromagnetic waves carry energy and
Energy U
accelerated charge. momentum. =
(ii) Electromagnetic waves do not require speed c
any medium for propagation. So The force exerted by an electromagnetic
electromagnetic wave is a non-mechanical wave on unit area of a surface is called
wave. radiation pressure.
(iii) Electromagnetic waves are transverse in (xii) If the electromagnetic wave incident on a
nature. material surface is completely absorbed,
(iv) Electromagnetic waves travel with speed then the energy delivered is U and
which is equal to the speed of light in momentum imparted on the surface is
U
vacuum or free space, p=
c
1
c= = 3 × 108 ms–1, where εo is (xiii) If the incident electromagnetic wave of
ε0µ0 energy U is totally reflected from the
the permittivity of free space or vacuum surface, then the momentum delivered to
and μo is the permeability of free space or U  U U
vacuum. the surface is ∆p = – −  =2
c  c c

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Sura’s
(xiv) The rate of flow of energy crossing a
unit area is known as pointing vector for
electromagnetic waves.
(xv) Electromagnetic waves carries not only
energy and momentum but also angular
momentum.
6. Discuss the source of electromagnetic waves.
Ans. (i) Any stationary source charge produces
only electric field. When the charge moves
with uniform velocity, it produces steady
current which gives rise to magnetic
field (not time dependent, only space
dependent) around the conductor in
which charge flows.
(ii) If the charged particle accelerates, in
addition to electric field it also produces
magnetic field.
Propagation of an Electromagnetic Wave
Source
E taken, we get emission spectrum. Each source
Discharging
spark or Magnetic
B Direction
oscillating Electric
molecular vectors
vectors
dipole
Pu
Oscillating charges - sources of electromagnetic waves
(iii) Both electric and magnetic fields are time
varying fields. Since the electromagnetic
ra
waves are transverse waves, the direction
of propagation of electromagnetic waves
is perpendicular to the plane containing
Su
electric and magnetic field vectors.
(iv) Any oscillatory motion is also an
accelerating motion, so, when the charge
oscillates (oscillating molecular dipole)
about their mean position as shown in
Figure, it produces electromagnetic waves.
(v) Suppose the electromagnetic field in free
space propagates along z direction, and
if the electric field vector points along y
axis then the magnetic field vector will be
mutually perpendicular to both electric
field and the propagation vector direction,
which means
Ey = E sin (kz – ωt)
Bx = Bo sin(Kz –wt)
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➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I
(vi) where, E0 and B0 are amplitude of oscillating
electric and magnetic field, k is a wave
number, ω is the angular frequency of the
∧
wave and k (unit vector, here it is called
propagation vector) denotes the direction
of propagation of electromagnetic wave.
(vii) Note that both electric field and magnetic
field oscillate with a frequency (frequency
of electromagnetic wave) which is equal
to the frequency of the source (here,
oscillating charge is the source for the
production of electromagnetic waves).
(viii) In free space or in vacuum, the ratio
ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
between E0 and B0 is equal to the speed of
electromagnetic wave, which is equal to
ns
speed of light c.
E0
c =
B0
tio
7. What is emission spectra? Give their types.
Ans. When the spectrum of self luminous source is
a
ic
has its own characteristic emission spectrum.
Z
The emission spectrum can be divided into three
bl
types:
(i) Continuous emission spectra (or
continuous spectra)
Continuous spectrum
continuous emission spectra
If the light from incandescent lamp
(filament bulb) is allowed to pass through
prism (simplest spectroscope), it splits
into seven colours. Thus, it consists of
wavelengths containing all the visible
colours ranging from violet to red (in the
figure). Examples: spectrum obtained
from carbon arc, incandescent solids,
liquids gives continuous spectra.
(ii) Line emission spectrum (or line
spectrum):
Hot gas
Emission spectrum
line emission spectra
Suppose light from hot gas is allowed
to pass through prism, line spectrum is
observed (Figure). Line spectra are also
known as discontinuous spectra. The
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Sura’s ➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I
line spectra are sharp lines of definite
wavelengths or frequencies. Such spectra
arise due to excited atoms of elements.
These lines are the characteristics of the
element which means it is different for
different elements. Examples: spectra of
atomic hydrogen, helium, etc.
(iii) Band emission spectrum (or band
spectrum)
Band spectrum consists of several number
of very closely spaced spectral lines which
overlapped together forming specific
bands which are separated by dark spaces,
known as band spectra. This spectrum has
a sharp edge at one end and fades out at
the other end. Such spectra arise when the
molecules are excited. Band spectrum is
the characteristic of the molecule hence,
the structure of the molecules can be
studied using their band spectra. Examples,
spectra of hydrogen gas, ammonia gas in
Unit 5
the discharge tube etc.
8. What is absorption spectra? Give their types.
Ans. When light is allowed to pass through a medium
or an absorbing substance then the spectrum
obtained is known as absorption spectrum. It
Pu
is the characteristic of absorbing substance.
Absorption spectrum is classified into three
types:
ra
(i) Continuous absorption spectrum :
When the light is passed through a
Su
medium, it is dispersed by the prism, is
obtained continuous absorption spectrum.
For instance, when we pass white light is
passed through a blue glass plate, it absorbs
everything except blue. This is an example
of continuous absorption spectrum.
(ii) Line absorption spectrum :
Gold gas Absorption spectrum
line absorption spectra
When light from the incandescent lamp
is passed through cold gas (medium), the
spectrum obtained through the dispersion
due to prism is line absorption spectrum
(Figure). Similarly, if the light from the
carbon arc is made to pass through sodium
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vapour, a continuous spectrum of carbon
arc with two dark lines in the yellow region
of sodium vapour is obtained.
(iii) Band absorption spectrum :
When the white light is passed through the
iodine vapour, dark bands on continuous
bright background is obtained. This type
of band is also obtained when white light
is passed through diluted solution of blood
or chlorophyll or through certain solutions
of organic and inorganic compounds.
IV. Numerical problems :
1. Consider a parallel plate capacitor
whose plates are closely spaced. Let R be
ns
the radius of the plates and the current
in the wire connected to the plates is
5 A, calculate the displacement current
tio
through the surface passing between the plates
by directly calculating the rate of change of
a
flux of electric field through the surface.
ic
Ans. Given: Radius of the plates = R
Area of the parallel plate capacitor = A
bl
Current in the wire connected to the
plates Ic = 5 A
Q
The electric field between the plates E =
ε0A
Q → charge accumulated at the positive plate.
The flux of this field through the given area ΦE
Q Q
ΦE = ×A=
ε0A ε0
The displacement current Id =
d ΦE d  Q  dQ
Id = ε 0 ⋅ = ε0 ⋅   =
dt dt  ε 0  dt
dQ
is the rate at which the charge is carried to
dt
the positive plate through the connecting wire
∴Id = Ic = 5A.
2. A transmitter consists of LC circuit with an
inductance of 1 μH and a capacitance of 1 μF.
What is the wavelength of the electromagnetic
waves it emits?
Ans. Given:
An inductance of LC circuit L = 1µH = 1×10–6 H
Capacitance of LC circuit C = 1µF = 1 × 10–6 F
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Sura’s ➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I
To find: c velocity of light in vacuum 3 × 108
Wavelength of e.m. wave emitted λ = ? λ= = =
γ frequency of e.m. wave 1010
Formula :
λ = 3 × 10–2 m.
c c
γ = ⇒ λ= Amplitude of electric field E0 = ?
λ γ
E0
The velocity of light in vacuum, C = 3 × 108 ms–1 B0 = ⇒ E0 = B0 . C
C
1
The frequency of e.m. wave γ = E0 = 10–5 × 3 × 108 = 3 × 103
2π LC E0 = 3 × 103 V m–1 (or) N C–1
Solution: Formula:
∴ c
λ= = 2π LC × c The expression for electric field is
1 1
. E = E0 sin (kx – ωt)  ...(1)
2 π LC
ω

ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
 = 2 × 3.14 × 10 −6 ×10 −6 × 3 ×108 Where k = ; ω = 2π γ
c
λ = 6.25 × 10–6 × 3 × 108 = 2 × 3.14 × 1010 = 6.28 × 1010

ns
λ = 18.84 × 102 m
2πγ 6.28 ×1010
3. A pulse of light of duration 10−6 s is absorbed k = = = 2.09 × 102
c 3 ×108

tio
completely by a small object initially at rest. If
the power of the pulse is 60 × 10–3 W, calculate
the final momentum of the object.
a
Ans. Given: Duration of absorption of light t = 10–6 s.
ic
Power of the pulse, P = 60 × 10–3 W
To find:
bl
subtraction in (1)
The wave is propergating along x - axis and
()
→
magnetic field oscillates B along y - axis, E will
be
→ ∧
E = 3 × 103 sin (2.09 × 102 x – 6.28 × 1010 t) i NC–1

The final momentum of the object, ∆p = ? 5. If the relative permeability and relative
Formula:
Pu

permittivity of the medium is 1.0 and

U energy 2.25, respectively. Find the speed of the
∆p = =
c velocity of light in vacuum electromagnetic wave in this medium.
Solution:
Ans. The relative permeability of the medium µr = 1
ra

Energy = power × time

The relative permittivity of the medium εr = 2.25
= 60 × 10–3 × 10–6
Speed of Electromagnetic wave in this
Su

U = 60 × 10–9 medium v = ?
60 ×10 −9 1 1
∆p = = 20 × 10–17 kg m s–1 v = =
3 ×108 µε µ0µ r ε0 ε r
∆p = 20 × 10–17 kg m s–1
1 1
4. Let an electromagnetic wave propagate along v = ⋅
µ0 ε0 µ r ε r
the x direction, the magnetic field oscillates at
a frequency of 1010 Hz and has an amplitude 1
But = c (velocity of Electromagnetic
of 10–5 T, acting along the y - direction. Then, µ0 ε0
compute the wavelength of the wave. Also wave in vacuum)
write down the expression for electric field in
this case. c 2 c2
∴v = ⇒ v =
Ans. Given: µr ⋅ εr µr εr
Magnetic frequency of e.m. wave, γ = 1010 Hz 3 ×108 × 3 × 108 9 ×1016
v2 = =
Amplitude of e.m. wave, A0 = 10–5 T 1 × 2.25 2.25
To Find: v2 = 4 × 1016 m s–1
Wavelength of e.m. wave, λ = ? ∴v = 2 × 108 m s–1
249
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Sura’s ➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I
additional questions and answers
Choose the Correct Answer 1 mark
1. Who produced the electromagnetic waves
first?
(a) J.C.Bose (b) Marconi
(c) maxwell (d) hertz
[Ans. (d) hertz]
2. Speed of electromagnetic wave is the same for
all
(a) wavelength (b) media
(c) intensities (d) frequencies
[Ans. (c) intensities]
3. Electromagnetic waves are produced by
(a) static charge (b) moving charge
(c) an accelerating charge
(d) chargeless particles
Unit 5

a
[Ans. (c) an accelerating charge]
ic
4. Which of the following electromagnetic waves
has the highest frequency?
bl
(a) radio waves (b) micro waves
(c) X- rays (d) γ-rays
Pu
[Ans. (d) γ-rays]
5. Which of the following E.M waves has the
longest wavelength?
ra
(a) Radio waves (b) IR
(c) X-rays (d) visible
Su
[Ans. (a) Radio waves]
6. The electric and magnetic field of an EM wave
are
(a) in phase and perpendicular to each other
(b) in phase and parallel to each other (d) electromagnetic waves
(c) in opposite phase and perpendicular to each
other
(d) in opposite phase and parallel to each other
[Ans. (a) in phase and perpendicular to each
other]
7. The Em waves do not transport
(a) energy (b) charge
(c) momentum (d) information
[Ans. (b) charge]
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8. Which EM waves are used in medicine to
destroy cancer cells?
(a) radio waves (b) IR
(c) γ rays (d) UV rays
[Ans. (c) γ rays]
9. Which of the following is a special aspect of
EM wave?
(a) can be deflected by electric field
(b) can be deflected by magnetic filed
(c) can be deflected by both electric & magnetic
filed
(d) none of these  [Ans. (d) none of these]
ns
10. The existence of E.M. waves was confirmed
experimentally by
tio
(a) Hertz (b) Maxwell
(c) Huygens (d) Planck
[Ans. (a) Hertz]
11. If the velocity of light in a medium is
2.25 × 108 ms–1 then the refractive index of the
medium will be
(a) 1.5 (b) 0.5
(c) 1.33 (d) 1.73
[Ans. (c) 1.33]]
12. A magnetic field is produced by
(a) a changing electric field
(b) a moving charge
(c) both of them
(d) none of them [Ans. (c) both of them]
13. Accelerated charges would produce
(a) sound waves (b) γ - ways
(c) magnetic waves
 [Ans. (d) electromagnetic waves]
14. Electromagnetic waves are discovered by
(a) Hertz (b) Maxwell
(c) Lenz (d) Huygens
 [Ans. (b) Maxwell]
15. The wavuelength range of ultra violet radiation is
(a) 6×10–10 to 4×10–7 m (b) 4×10–7 to 7×10–7 m
(c) 6×10–10 to 7×10–10 m (d) 7×10–7to9×10–9 m
 [Ans. (a) 6×10–10 to 4×10–7 m]
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Sura’s ➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I
Long Answer 5 marks Where q is the charge accumulated on the
positive plate.
1. Show how to generalize Ampere's circuital The electric flux through this plate
law to include the term due to displacement q q
current? φE = EA = . A=
ε0 A ε0
Ans. According to Ampere's circuital law, ∴Displacement current
→ →
∫ B .dl = µ0I  ...(1) dφ d  q  dq
Id = ε 0 . = ε 0   =
s dt dt  ε 0  dt
As the current flows across the area bounded by
dq
loop S1, so is the rate at which charge flows to positive
→ → dt
∫ B . dl = µ0I  ...(2) plate through the conducting wire.
s1 , s Id = IC
But the area bounded by S2 lies in the region i.e. displacement current between the capacitor
between the plates capacitor where no current plates = conduction current through wire.

ns
flows across it.
→ → Numerical problems
∴ ∫ B .dl = 0. 1. In an Electromagnetic wave propagating along

tio
s2
X - direction, the magnetic field osciallates at a
Consider that loops enclosing S1 & S2 are frequency. 5 × 108 Hz and has an amplitude of
Unit 5

infinitesimally close to each other. Then

a 10–7 tesla, acting along the Y-direction.
→ → → →
∫ B . dl = ∫ B . dl (i) What is the wavelength of the wave?
ic
s1 s2 (ii) Write the expression representing the
bl

This equation is inconsistent with equation (2) & corresponding oscillating electric field.
(3). To remove this maxwell said that a changing Ans. Given:
Pu

electric field (during charging) between the

The frequency of Electromagnetic wave
capacitor plates must induce a magnetic field
γ = 5 × 108 Hz
which in turn must be associated with current Id.
λ = 0.6 m.
ra

 dφE  dφE c 3 × 108

(i) λ= = = 0.6
Id= ε o   [ change in electric flux] γ 5 × 108
dt  dt
Su

The total current must be (ii) The amplitude of magnetic field B0 = 107 T
I = Iconduction + Idisplacement To find:
The amplitude of electric field E0 = ?
dφE
Ic = ε o E0 = c B0 = 3 × 108 × 10–7 = 30 V m –1
dt
The expression for oscillating electric field
Hence the generalised from of Ampere’s circuital
 Ez = ?
law is 1
E = E0 sin 2π (vt + . x)
→ →  dφE  λ
∫ B .dl = µ0  IC + ε0 dt  E = 30 . sin 2π (3 × 108 t + 1.66 x) Vm–1
s
2. A parallel plate capacitor is charged by an 2. The oscillating magnetic field in a plane
external ac source straight the displacement Electromagnetic wave is given by
current inside the capacitor is the same as the By = (8 × 10–6) sin (2 × 1011 t + 300 πx) T
current charging the capacitor.
(i) Calculate the l of Electromagnetic wave.
Ans. Electric field between the capacitor plates
(ii) Find the amplitude of electric field.
σ q
E= =
ε0 ε0A

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Sura’s ➠ XII Std - Physics - Volume-I

2π 1 frequency γ = 30 Mhz = 30 × 106 Hz.
Ans. (i) λ = = m
300 π 150 To find: Angle velocity ω = ?
 x t
[By = B0 sin 2π  +  ] Wavelength of Electromagnetic wave λ = ?
 λ r
(ii) E0 = c, B0 = 3 × 108 × 8 × 10–6 = 2400 Vm –1 (i) Ampere of electric field E = ?
E
3. In a plane Electromagnetic wave the electric = C ⇒ E = C.B ⇒ 3 × 108 × 1.6 × 10–7
B
field oscillates sinusoidally at a frequency of
E = 48 V m–1.
1.5 × 1010 Hz & amplitude 36 Vm–1.
(ii) Angle velocity, ω = 2πγ
(i) What is the wavelength of a wave?
(ii) What the amplitude of the oscillating ω = 2 × 3.14 × 30 × 106
magnetic field? ω = 1.885 × 108 rad /s.
(iii) Straight the average energy density of C
(iii) Wavelength of Electromagnetic wave, λ =
()

ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
→ γ
the electric field E , is equal to average 3 ×108
()
→ λ=
30 ×106
= 10 m

ns
energy density of the magnetic field B

c 3 ×108 λ = 10 m.
Ans. (i) Wavelength λ = = = 2 × 10–2 m

tio
γ 1.5 ×1010 5. In an electric circuit, there is a capacitor of
E 36 reactance 100 Ω connected across the source
(ii) B = = = 12 × 10–8 T of 220 V, find the displacement current.
c 3 × 108
a
Formula :  (or) 1.2 × 10–7 T Ans. Since displacement current = conduction
ic
→ current
(iii) Average energy of magnetic field E
bl

1 V 220
Id = = =2.2A
UE = . ε0E2 X C 100
2
Pu

→
Average energy density of electric field B 6. In which way you can establish an

instantaneous displacement current of 1.0 A
1
UE = . B2 in the space between the parallel plates of 1 µf
2µ 0 1 capacitor?
ra

But E = CB & C2 =
µ0 ε0 Ans. Given: Displacement current,
1 1
UE = . ε0E2 = . ε (CB)2 Id = ε0 d φ E
Su

2 2 0
dt
1 1 1

UE = . ε0. B2 = B2 = UB = ε d (EA)  (∴φE = EA)
2 µ ε
0 0 µ 0 ε0
0
dt
∴ UE = UB d  V  V

Id = ε0A    ( E =   )
dt  d  d
4. The magnetic field amplitude of an
Electromagnetic wave is 1.6 × 10–7 T. If the ε 0 A  dV  ε0 A
Id =    ( C = )
frequency is 30 MHz. determine electric field, d  dt  d
any velocity K and λ. Formula:
Ans. Given: The amplitude of magnetic field of an dV
Id = C .
Electromagnetic wave B = 1.6 × 10–7 T dt
To find: Solution:
The amplitude of electric field of an Id 1.0
dV
Electromagnetic wave E = ? = = −6 = 10
6

dt C 1 × 10

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