If an electromagnetic wave moves in the $+y$ direction, and its magnetic field disturbance is in the $+z$ direction, what polarization does this wave have? (Assume the $z$ axis points upward.)
A) Upright polarization
B) Horizontal polarization
C) One cannot answer without more information.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The polarization of an electromagnetic wave is determined by the direction of its electric field. Since the magnetic field disturbance is in the $+z$ direction and the wave moves in the $+y$ direction, the electric field must be in the $+x$ direction (perpendicular to both the direction of propagation and the magnetic field). This configuration corresponds to horizontal polarization.

If an Electromagnetic Wave Moves in The +y+y+y Direction, and Its Magnetic Field Disturbance Is in The

If an Electromagnetic Wave Moves in The $+y$ Direction, and Its Magnetic Field Disturbance Is in The