Electromagnetic waves

• Definition: Electromagnetic waves or EM

waves are waves that are created as a result
of vibrations between an electric field and a
magnetic field. In other words, EM waves are
composed of oscillating magnetic and electric
fields. ... They are also perpendicular to the
direction of the EM wave.
 What are the 7 types of EM waves?

• The electromagnetic spectrum includes, from

longest wavelength to shortest: radio
waves, microwaves, infrared, optical,
ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma-rays.
 How EM waves are produced?

• Electromagnetic waves are created by

oscillating charges (which radiate whenever
accelerated) and have the same frequency as
the oscillation. Since the electric and magnetic
fields in most electromagnetic waves are
perpendicular to the direction in which
the wave moves, it is ordinarily a
transverse wave.
 Are EM waves harmful to humans?

• Despite extensive research, to date there is no

evidence to conclude that exposure to low
level electromagnetic fields is harmful to
human health. The focus of international
research is the investigation of possible links
between cancer and electromagnetic fields, at
power line and radiofrequencies.
 What are properties of EM waves?

• Every form of electromagnetic radiation,

including visible light, oscillates in a periodic
fashion with peaks and valleys, and displaying
a characteristic amplitude, wavelength,
and frequency that defines the
direction, energy, and intensity of the
radiation.
 How fast do EM waves travel?

• Generally speaking, we say that light travels in

waves, and all electromagnetic radiation
travels at the same speed which is about 3.0 *
108 meters per second through a vacuum.