Which one of the following statements about X-rays is not correct?

Which one of the following statements about X-rays is not correct?

[amp_mcq option1=”X-rays are longitudinal waves.” option2=”X-rays are transverse waves.” option3=”X-rays are electromagnetic waves.” option4=”X-rays do not require a medium to propagate.” correct=”option1″]

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UPSC Geoscientist – 2023

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X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation. Electromagnetic waves consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that are perpendicular to each other and to the direction of wave propagation. This characteristic defines them as transverse waves. Longitudinal waves, such as sound waves, are waves in which the oscillations are parallel to the direction of wave propagation. Therefore, the statement that X-rays are longitudinal waves is incorrect.

– X-rays are electromagnetic waves.
– Electromagnetic waves are transverse waves.
– Transverse waves have oscillations perpendicular to the direction of propagation.
– Longitudinal waves have oscillations parallel to the direction of propagation.
– X-rays, being electromagnetic, do not require a medium to travel.

The electromagnetic spectrum includes, in order of increasing frequency (decreasing wavelength): radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays. All waves in the electromagnetic spectrum share the fundamental property of being transverse waves and propagating at the speed of light in a vacuum.

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