Electromagnetic waves are

Options

A. transverse
B. longitudinal
C. longitudinal or transverse
D. none of these

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Definition of Electromagnetic Waves**: Electromagnetic waves are waves that consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space.

2. **Nature of Oscillation**: In electromagnetic waves, the electric field (E) and the magnetic field (B) oscillate perpendicular to each other. This means that if the electric field is oscillating in one direction, the magnetic field will oscillate in a direction that is at a right angle (90 degrees) to it.

3. **Direction of Propagation**: The direction in which the electromagnetic wave travels is also perpendicular to both the electric field and the magnetic field. This is often visualized using the right-hand rule, where if you point your thumb in the direction of the wave's propagation, your index finger points in the direction of the electric field, and your middle finger (perpendicular to both) points in the direction of the magnetic field.

4. **Classification of Waves**: Electromagnetic waves are classified as transverse waves. In transverse waves, the oscillation of the medium (in this case, the electric and magnetic fields) occurs perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, electromagnetic waves are transverse waves where the electric and magnetic fields oscillate perpendicular to each other and to the direction of wave travel.