Light is a transverse oscillitating wave (can't conceptualize)

AI Thread Summary
Light is an electromagnetic wave characterized by oscillating electric and magnetic fields that are perpendicular to each other and to the direction of propagation. The discussion explores how these fields oscillate, comparing their behavior to ocean waves and strings, where the strength of the fields varies over time. When light is polarized, the oscillations can be confined to specific coordinates, affecting the amplitude and direction of the fields. The amplitude of the wave fluctuates between positive and negative values, indicating the strength of the electric field at any point in time. This understanding clarifies the nature of light's transverse oscillation.
hongiddong
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I know light is an electromagnetic wave that has an electric field and magnetic field that are perpendicular to each other. I was wondering how the oscillation was occurring?

1. Are the strength of the fields waning and waxing perpendicularly to the propogation of motion like in the case of ocean waves and string?

Ex. Say we polarized the light so that the oscilations remain in there xy or zy coordinates, I'm thinking at one instantaneous point, we have the electromagnetic strength on a cartesian graph at (0,10) then through time, the strength wanes and we will see the strength of the field at (10,5)
 
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hongiddong said:
I
1. Are the strength of the fields waning and waxing perpendicularly to the propogation of motion like in the case of ocean waves and string?
Yes.
Say we polarized the light so that the oscillations remain in their xy or zy coordinates, I'm thinking at one instantaneous point, we have the electromagnetic strength on a cartesian graph at (0,10) then through time, the strength wanes and we will see the strength of the field at (10,5)
I'm not sure I understand your notation...
If the amplitude of the wave is ##A##, then the strength of the electric field at any given point will vary with time, ranging from ##A## to ##-A## and back again, pointing in some direction (determined by the polarization) perpendicular to the direction of travel.
 
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Thank you Nugatory! I see it now.
 
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