Explain the concept of the transverse nature of... - SS2 Physics Electromagnetic Waves Question

The transverse nature of electromagnetic waves refers to the oscillation of electric and magnetic fields perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. Unlike longitudinal waves, where the oscillation occurs parallel to the direction of wave propagation, electromagnetic waves exhibit perpendicular oscillations. This unique characteristic allows electromagnetic waves to exhibit various phenomena, such as polarisation and interference.

For example, consider a light wave. As it travels through space, the electric field oscillates vertically, while the magnetic field oscillates horizontally, both perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. This transverse nature of light waves enables them to be polarised using filters that allow only certain orientations of the electric field to pass through.