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.
Content :
• 1. Definition
• 2. E.M.W. series
• 3. How to produce
• 4. Representation.
• 5. Properties.
• 6. application.
Electromagnetic spectrum:
How to produce
E.M.W. ?
• An accelerating charged particle produces an
electromagnetic (EM) wave.  Electromagnetic waves are
electric and magnetic fields traveling through empty space
with the speed of light c.  A charged particle oscillating
about an equilibrium position is an accelerating charged
particle.  If its frequency of oscillation is f, then it produces
an electromagnetic wave with frequency f.  The wavelength
λ of this wave is given by λ = c/f.  Electromagnetic waves
transport energy through space. This energy can be
delivered to charged particles a large distance away from
the source. Accelerating charges produce changing electric
and magnetic fields.  Changing electric fields produce
magnetic fields and changing magnetic fields produce
electric fields.  This interplay between induced electric and
magnetic fields leads to propagating electromagnetic
waves.  Electromagnetic waves can propagate through free
space.
Diagram:
Properties :
The EM energy is clean. We are not degrading the
environment or destroying any raw material .It is
also renewable.
•It is versatile in nature.
•The frequency, wavelength and the speed of light
follow a relationship of:
•Wavelength* frequency= speed of light
•Wavelength of the Electromagnetic spectrum
continually changes
•high frequency = short wavelength
•high frequency = high energy
•high energy = more dangerous
Application :
• EM waves accomplish the transmission of energy through a vacuum or using no medium.
• Since electromagnetic waves transmit energy, it plays an important role in our daily lives including the
communication technology.
• Electromagnetic radiation is the foundation for working of radar which in turn is used for guiding and
remote sensing the study of our planet Earth.
• Ultraviolet rays are germicidal in nature and destroy bacteria, viruses and from various surfaces, air or
water.
• UV rays are also used to detect the forged bank notes. Real bank notes don’t turn fluorescent under the
UV light.
• UV rays have also sanitary and therapeutic properties.
• X-rays detect the bone breaks by passing through the flesh and capturing the image.
• Gamma rays can be used to treat cancers. High doses of gamma rays kill the normal cells causing cancer.
• Infrared radiation is used for night vision and comes handy for security cameras.
• Infrared radiation is visible at all times thus is used by officials to capture enemy.
Quiz :
• Besides light name another three electromagnetic waves.
 Answers :
Radio waves, Microwaves, X-ray.