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

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    Light Transverse Wave
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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 oscillation of these fields can be visualized as varying in strength over time, akin to ocean waves, with the amplitude of the electric field ranging from a maximum positive value to a maximum negative value. Polarization affects the orientation of these oscillations, which can be represented on a Cartesian graph. The discussion clarifies that the strength of the electric field oscillates between its maximum and minimum values, confirming the transverse nature of light waves.

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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 propagation 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 propagation 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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