Question:
An EM 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 I/c if the wave is totally absorbed
(b) radiation pressure is I/c if the wave is totally reflected
(c) radiation pressure is 2I/c if the wave is totally reflected
(d) radiation pressure is in the range I/c < p < 2I/c for real surface
Solution:
(a) radiation pressure is I/c if the wave is totally absorbed
(c) radiation pressure is 2I/c if the wave is totally reflected
(d) radiation pressure is in the range I/c < p < 2I/c for real surface