Out of the following options which one can be used to produce a propagating electromagnetic wave?
- A chargeless particle
- An accelerating charge
- A charge moving at constant velocity
- A stationary charge
Answer
(2) An accelerating charge
Solution
As per NCERT, a stationary charge produces only an electric field and a charge moving with constant velocity produces a steady current (static magnetic field); neither radiates.
An accelerating charge produces an oscillating electric field, which produces an oscillating magnetic field, and so on. These fields regenerate each other and propagate as an electromagnetic wave.
An accelerating charge is the source of electromagnetic waves.
Answer: (2)