Why is Light Rectilinear? Explaining Its Acceptance

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Light is accepted as rectilinear because it travels in straight lines, which is evident in phenomena like shadows. The transverse wave nature of light means that energy flow is perpendicular to the electric and magnetic fields, reinforcing the straight-line propagation concept. While diffraction occurs when light encounters obstacles, this disturbance is temporary, and light eventually re-establishes its rectilinear path. The term "rectilinear" historically referred to the observation of shadows, emphasizing light's straight-line behavior. Overall, the acceptance of light's rectilinearity is rooted in both its physical properties and historical context.
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Explain why it's accepted that light is rectilinear. It doesn't really seem like it.
 
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AstrophysicsX said:
Explain why it's accepted that light is rectilinear. It doesn't really seem like it.
Details? What is your objection?
 
well its a transverse wave - the direction of energy flow is always perpendicular to the plane containing the e-field and b-field, so the energy has to move in a straight line, albeit infinitely many straight lines.
 
What about diffraction?
 
The E and H fields are only at right angles to the energy flow in the 'far field'. When you introduce an obstacle, the fields are disturbed (diffraction) and need to travel a reasonable distance to settle down again. The term Rectilinear was originally to describe the fact that you see shadows. I don't think there's really any conflict here - just a bit of history.
 

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