Q-13. An E.M. wave of intensity I falls on a surface kept in vacuum and exerts radiation pressure p on it. Which of the following are true?

(a) Radiation pressure is IC if the wave is totally absorbed.

(b) Radiation pressure is IC if the wave is totally reflected.

(c) Radiation pressure is 2IC if the wave is totallyreflected.

(d) Radiation pressure is in the range IC<p<2IC for real surfaces.

 

Ans:(a), (c) and (d)

Explanation:

It is defined as the momentum imported per second per unit are on which light falls.

i.e. Radiation pressure = MomentumArea TimeBut momentum transfered in EMW is P= UC         Force F=Pt=UCt = UC.t Pressure P=ForceArea=FA                  P=UC.tA=UA.C.t=UAt1C                 P=IC        IUA.t

It is valid for total absorption. 

For totally reflecting surface   P=2IC

 

Radiation pressure P comes in the range between IC<p<2IC