An electromagnetic wave has an electric field with peak value 250.0 N/C. What is the average energy delivered to a surface with area 0.75 m² by this wave in one hour? A)8.3 × 10⁴ J B)1.6 × 10⁵ J166 J C)2.2 × 10⁵ J D)3700 J E)9960 J

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The average energy delivered by an electromagnetic wave is given by the equation:

Average energy = (1/2)ε0cE^2A

where ε0 is the permittivity of free space, c is the speed of light, E is the peak electric field, and A is the surface area.

Substituting the given values:

Average energy = (1/2)(8.85×10^-12)(3×10^8)(250^2)(0.75×10^-6) J

Average energy = 2.2×10^-15 J

Multiplying by the time duration of 1 hour or 3600 seconds:

Average energy delivered in one hour = (2.2×10^-15)×(3600) J

Average energy delivered in one hour = 7.92×10^-12 J

Hence, the closest answer is option C) 2.2 × 10^15 J.

An Electromagnetic Wave Has an Electric Field with Peak Value