Electromagnetic waves

A mind map about Electromagnetic waves (Physics).

Edited at 2021-02-28 06:26:09

Electromagnetic waves are waves that are created as a result of vibrations between an electric field and a magnetic field.

Properties of electromagnetic waves

Electromagnetic waves are transverse waves

Electromagnetic waves can travel through vacuum

Electromagnetic waves transfer energy from one place to another

Electromagnetic waves travel at the same speed of 3.0x10^8m s^-1 in vacuum

The wave speed equation is wave speed= frequency of the wave x wavelength of the wave and it is applicable to all electromagnetic waves

When an electromagnetic wave travels from one medium to another, its speed and wavelength change but its frequency does not change

Electromagnetic waves obey the laws of reflection and refraction

Electromagnetic waves carry no electric charge

Application of electromagnetic waves

Radio waves ( Radios, over-the-air television and communications)

Microwaves (microwave ovens, satellite television and global positioning system)

Infrared radiation (remote controllers, ear thermometers and intruder alarms)

Visible light (optical fibres)

Ultraviolet radiation (sunbeds and sterilisation of equipment)

X-rays (radiation therapy and imaging)

Gamma rays (radiation therapy)

Effects of electromagnetic waves

Infrared heating

Ionisation and damage to living cells