Electromagnetic wave polarization and incidence: which of the following statements about electric vector orientation, polarization naming, and the plane of incidence are correct?

Introduction / Context:
Remote sensing systems (radar and optics) are sensitive to polarization. The naming conventions for polarization depend on the orientation of the electric field (E-field) relative to the plane of incidence, which is established by the incoming ray and the surface normal at the point of interaction. Correct comprehension of these conventions is important for understanding reflectance, emissivity, and radar backscatter behavior.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A plane wave impinges on a planar surface.
• The electric field defines the polarization state (linear polarization cases).
• Standard geophysical naming: vertical (p) and horizontal (s) relative to the plane of incidence.

Concept / Approach:
Linear polarization is defined by a fixed direction of the E-field vector. If the E-field lies in the plane of incidence (p-polarization), it is often called vertical polarization in geophysical literature; if the E-field is perpendicular to that plane (s-polarization), it is often called horizontal polarization. The plane of incidence is, by definition, the plane through the incident ray and the surface normal. These conventions underpin Fresnel reflection coefficients and explain different reflectivities for s and p polarizations.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Recall the definition of linear (plane) polarization.Relate p-polarization (E in plane of incidence) to vertical; s-polarization (E ⟂ plane) to horizontal.State the definition of the plane of incidence.All listed statements align with the standard conventions.

Verification / Alternative check:
Fresnel equations are commonly presented with s and p polarizations; experimental reflectance curves differ for each, confirming the practical importance of the definitions.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Each individual statement is correct; omitting any would give an incomplete picture. Hence the combined option is appropriate.

Common Pitfalls:
Mixing up vertical/horizontal labels between different conventions; forgetting that the naming is relative to the plane of incidence, not the ground.

Final Answer:
All of these