Exam-style question
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How does the ability to polarise light support the classification of light as a transverse wave?.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The ability to polarise light indicates that it oscillates in a plane perpendicular to its direction of travel.
- This characteristic is unique to transverse waves, as longitudinal waves oscillate in the same direction as their travel.
- Therefore, the polarisation of light confirms its classification as a transverse wave.
Explanation
Why this works
This answer effectively connects the cause (ability to polarise light) to the mechanism (oscillation perpendicular to travel direction), leading to the effect (classification as a transverse wave) and the consequence (supporting evidence for wave classification). The question assesses the application of wave theory in understanding light.
Common mistake
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