Electromagnetic waves

Electromagnetic Waves

Electromagnetic waves (pronunciation: /ɪˌlɛktrəʊmæɡˈnɛtɪk weɪvz/) are waves produced by the acceleration of an electric charge and propagated by the periodic variation of intensities of electric field and magnetic field. The term is derived from the Greek words 'electron' meaning amber (from which the concept of electricity was first derived) and 'magnetos' meaning magnetic.

Description

Electromagnetic waves are characterized by their wavelength and frequency. They can travel through a vacuum at the speed of light and are not deflected by electric or magnetic fields. The range of wavelengths is known as the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes, in order of increasing frequency and decreasing wavelength: radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, x-rays, and gamma rays.

Properties

Electromagnetic waves exhibit properties of both particles and waves, a concept known as wave-particle duality. They can be reflected, refracted, and polarized. They also exhibit the Doppler effect, which is the change in frequency or wavelength of a wave in relation to an observer who is moving relative to the wave source.

Applications

Electromagnetic waves have a wide range of applications. They are used in communication systems, medical imaging, weather forecasting, and many other areas. For example, x-rays are used in medical imaging to view the inside of the human body, while microwaves are used in cooking and telecommunications.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Electromagnetic waves
Wikipedia's article - Electromagnetic waves

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Electromagnetic waves