Solution
Related Formula
I = (1)/(2)ε₀ E₀² c c = 1 μ₀ε₀Core Logic
The average power per unit area (Intensity) of an electromagnetic wave in vacuum is I = (1)/(2)ε₀ E₀² c. We can reorganize the formula using the intrinsic impedance of free space Z₀ = μ₀ε₀ = 377Ω.
Step 1: Rewrite Intensity Formula
I = (1)/(2) ε₀ E₀² 1 μ₀ε₀ I = (1)/(2) E₀² ε₀μ₀We are given the intrinsic impedance μ₀ε₀ = 377 ε₀μ₀ = (1)/(377).
Step 2: Extract Amplitude and Calculate
From the wave equation, E₀ = √(377) N/C. Substitute into the intensity formula:
I = (1)/(2) (√(377))² × (1)/(377) I = (1)/(2) × 377 × (1)/(377) = (1)/(2) W/m²Step 3: Compare with given format
I = (1)/(α) α = 2Pattern Recognition
Sees: "average power... W/m^2" → the problem is asking for Intensity. When given intrinsic impedance (377Ω), use the form I = Erms² / Z₀ = E₀² / (2Z₀) directly.
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Physics: Electromagnetic Waves