Angle between electric and magnetic field

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between electric field (E) and magnetic field (B) in electromagnetic theory (EMT). In the first frame, E and B are stated to be parallel, with the relationship E = cB. The user questions how E and B can be parallel, given that they are typically perpendicular to each other and to the direction of wave propagation. The resolution clarifies that if the fields are not part of an electromagnetic wave, they can indeed be parallel, contradicting the user's initial assumption.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic theory (EMT)
  • Familiarity with the relationship between electric and magnetic fields
  • Knowledge of wave propagation concepts
  • Basic grasp of vector mathematics in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the conditions under which electric and magnetic fields can be parallel
  • Learn about electromagnetic wave propagation and its characteristics
  • Explore the mathematical representation of electromagnetic fields
  • Investigate the implications of field orientation in different physical scenarios
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying electromagnetic theory, as well as educators and anyone seeking to clarify the relationship between electric and magnetic fields in various contexts.

Jigyasa
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1. Homework Statement
Hi. This is my first question on PF so please forgive me if something's not right

So I'm stuck at this question in EMT
In frame1, E and B are parallel and related by E=cB. We are required to find the cosine of the angle between electric field E' and magnetic field B' in another frame (The answer is to be in terms of B and B')

2. Homework Equations
We know that if E = Eo*e^(ik.r-wt) along n vector
then B = Bo*e^(ik.r-wt) along (n X k), where k is the wave propagation vector.and Bo = Eo/c

3. The Attempt at a Solution
Well I'm stuck at the first line itself. How can E and B be parallel? They're both always at 90 deg to each other as well as to the direction of propagation of the wave (as shown by the directions in the above two equations), isn't it?
 
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Is this the exact wording of the problem? It mentions nothing about a wave. Please always reproduce the problem statement exactly as given.
 
Orodruin said:
Is this the exact wording of the problem? It mentions nothing about a wave. Please always reproduce the problem statement exactly as given.

I am afraid this is the exact wording of the problem.
 
If that is the case then your field is not an EM wave and there is no reason why the E and B field cannot be parallel.
 

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