In vacuum, the Maxwell equations show that the E-Field and the B-Field are always perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the direction of propagation. However, in matter (a dielectric) it is possible that the E-Field and the direction of propagation are not perpendicular to each other (longitudinal oscillation). I am wondering whether E- and B-Field are always perpendicular or whether that just applies to electromagnetic waves in vacuum as well.
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