Question

The transverse nature of electromagnetic waves is confirmed by the phenomenon of

• A. diffraction
• B. polarization
• C. photoelectric effect
• D. interference
• E. total internal reflection

Hint:

Only transverse waves can be polarized. This is the strongest evidence for the transverse nature of light.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand transverse waves.
In transverse waves, the oscillations of particles are perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.

Step 2: Recall the concept of polarization.
Polarization is the phenomenon in which vibrations of a wave are restricted to a particular direction or plane.

Step 3: Identify which waves can be polarized.
Only transverse waves can be polarized. Longitudinal waves cannot show polarization.

Step 4: Apply this to electromagnetic waves.
Electromagnetic waves exhibit polarization, which proves that their oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of propagation.

Step 5: Analyze other options.
Diffraction and interference occur for both transverse and longitudinal waves, so they do not confirm transverse nature. Photoelectric effect relates to particle nature of light, and total internal reflection is a property of light propagation.

Step 6: Draw conclusion.
Thus, polarization uniquely confirms the transverse nature of electromagnetic waves.

Step 7: Final answer.
\[ \boxed{\text{polarization}} \] which matches option \((2)\).