The phenomenon of polarization of light demonstrates that light is a: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

The phenomenon of polarization of light demonstrates that light is a:
A. Longitudinal wave
B. Transverse wave
C. Mechanical wave
D. Matter wave
Answer: Option B
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Polarization (restriction of electric field oscillation to one plane) is possible only for transverse waves, where oscillations are perpendicular to propagation direction. Longitudinal waves (e.g., sound) cannot be polarized as oscillations are along propagation. This was key evidence for light's transverse wave nature. Memory aid: 'Polarization ⇒ transverse wave; light is EM transverse wave'. This conceptual question tests wave optics fundamentals, frequently examined in competitive exams. Always distinguish wave types: transverse (light, string waves) vs longitudinal (sound, spring waves).

Discuss this Question (0)

No comments yet. Be the first to start the discussion!

Practice More Physics Questions

Question #1
The electric field due to an infinite plane sheet of charge with surface charge density σ is:
A. Zero
B. 2σ/ε₀
C. σ/(2ε₀)
D. σ/ε₀

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Using Gauss's law, for an infinite sheet, electric field E = σ/(2ε₀), directed perpendicular to the sheet. This is uniform and independent of distance from the sheet. Option A is for field near conductor surface; C and D are incorrect. Memory aid: 'Infinite sheet: E = σ/(2ε₀); conductor surface: E = σ/ε₀'. This conceptual question tests electrostatics fundamentals, crucial for competitive exams. Always distinguish between conducting and non-conacting sheets, as field expressions differ due to charge distribution.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #2
Assertion (A): The velocity of sound is greater in solids than in gases. Reason (R): Solids possess higher elasticity compared to gases.
A. Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
B. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
C. A is false but R is true.
D. A is true but R is false.

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
The velocity of sound in a medium is determined by the formula v = √(E/ρ), where E is the modulus of elasticity and ρ is the density. Although solids are denser, their modulus of elasticity (bulk modulus) is tremendously higher than that of gases, overwhelmingly compensating for the density. Hence, sound travels fastest in solids.

This question belongs to: Science Physics
Question #3
A motor pump lifts 200 kg of water per minute to a height of 15 m. Power (g=10) is
A. 500 W
B. 1000 W
C. 3000 W
D. 2000 W

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Work per minute = mgh = 200×10×15 = 30000 J. Power = 30000/60 = 500 W.

This question belongs to: Science Physics