How are the component fields of an electromagnetic wave oriented?
The correct answer is C: They are at right angles. How are the component fields of an electromagnetic wave oriented is that they are at right angles. The electric field and magnetic field are perpendicular to each other. For amateur radio operators, this is fundamental electromagnetic theory. Understanding this helps when working with antennas and propagation.
Exam Tip
EM wave field orientation = at right angles. Think 'E'lectric and 'M'agnetic fields = 'E'ach 'M'akes 'R'ight angle. The electric field and magnetic field are perpendicular to each other. Not parallel, not tangential, not 90° phase - just at right angles.
Memory Aid
"EM wave field orientation = at right angles. Think 'E'lectric and 'M'agnetic = 'R'ight angles. The electric field and magnetic field are perpendicular to each other. Fundamental electromagnetic theory."
Real-World Application
The component fields of an electromagnetic wave: The electric field (E) and magnetic field (H) are oriented at right angles (90 degrees) to each other. This is fundamental electromagnetic theory - the two fields are always perpendicular. This is the orientation - at right angles.
Key Concepts
Why Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. Fields aren't parallel - they're perpendicular (at right angles). Parallel is wrong.
Option B: Incorrect. Tangential isn't the orientation - fields are at right angles. Tangential is wrong.
Option D: Incorrect. 90 degrees out of phase refers to time phase, not spatial orientation - fields are at right angles spatially. Phase isn't orientation.
题目解析
The correct answer is C: They are at right angles. How are the component fields of an electromagnetic wave oriented is that they are at right angles. The electric field and magnetic field are perpendicular to each other. For amateur radio operators, this is fundamental electromagnetic theory. Understanding this helps when working with antennas and propagation.
考试技巧
EM wave field orientation = at right angles. Think 'E'lectric and 'M'agnetic fields = 'E'ach 'M'akes 'R'ight angle. The electric field and magnetic field are perpendicular to each other. Not parallel, not tangential, not 90° phase - just at right angles.
记忆口诀
EM wave field orientation = at right angles. Think 'E'lectric and 'M'agnetic = 'R'ight angles. The electric field and magnetic field are perpendicular to each other. Fundamental electromagnetic theory.
实际应用示例
The component fields of an electromagnetic wave: The electric field (E) and magnetic field (H) are oriented at right angles (90 degrees) to each other. This is fundamental electromagnetic theory - the two fields are always perpendicular. This is the orientation - at right angles.
错误选项分析
Option A: Incorrect. Fields aren't parallel - they're perpendicular (at right angles). Parallel is wrong. Option B: Incorrect. Tangential isn't the orientation - fields are at right angles. Tangential is wrong. Option D: Incorrect. 90 degrees out of phase refers to time phase, not spatial orientation - fields are at right angles spatially. Phase isn't orientation.
知识点
Component fields, Electromagnetic wave, Right angles, Electric and magnetic fields
Verified Content
Question from official FCC Extra Class question pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators.