Which of the following statement is false for the properties of electromagnetic waves?

Options

A. Both electric and magnetic field vectors attain the maxima and minima at the same place and same time.
B. The energy in electromagnetic wave is divided equally between electric and magnetic field vectors.
C. Both electric and magnetic field vectors are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the direction of propagation of wave
D. These waves do not require any material medium for propagation.

Explanation

To determine which statement is false regarding the properties of electromagnetic waves, let's analyze each statement one by one:

1. **Statement 1**: Both electric and magnetic field vectors attain the maxima and minima at the same place and at the same time.
- **Analysis**: This statement is true. In an electromagnetic wave, the electric field (E) and magnetic field (B) oscillate in phase, meaning they reach their maximum and minimum values at the same locations and times.

2. **Statement 2**: The energy in electromagnetic waves is divided equally between electric and magnetic field vectors.
- **Analysis**: This statement is also true. The energy density in an electromagnetic wave is equally distributed between the electric field and the magnetic field.

3. **Statement 3**: Both electric and magnetic field vectors are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave.
- **Analysis**: This statement is false. In an electromagnetic wave, the electric field and magnetic field vectors are perpendicular to each other and also perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation. They are not parallel.

4. **Statement 4**: These waves do not require any material medium for propagation.
- **Analysis**: This statement is true. Electromagnetic waves can propagate through a vacuum, meaning they do not require a material medium.

**Conclusion**: The false statement is **Statement 3**: "Both electric and magnetic field vectors are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the direction of propagation of the wave."