Question #2cf17

1 Answer
Nov 6, 2017

The source that produce them and methods of their detection are different, but they have the following common properties

Explanation:

  • Electromagnetic waves are propagated by oscillating electric and magnetic fields oscillating at right angles to each other.

  • Electromagnetic waves travel with a constant velocity of about 3 x 10^8 m/s in vacuum.

  • Electromagnetic waves are not deflected by electric or magnetic fields.

  • Electromagnetic waves can show interference or diffraction.

  • Electromagnetic waves may be polarized and hence show transverse nature.

  • The wavelength (lamda) and the frequency (nu) of electromagnetic wave is related as
    c = nulamda = omega/k

  • Electromagnetic radiation can travel through empty space. Most other types of waves must travel through some sort of a material substance. For example, sound waves need either a gas, solid, or liquid to pass through in order to be heard.

  • The speed of light (and other EM waves) is always a constant. (Speed of light in vacuum : 2.99792458 x 10^8 m/s)

  • Wavelengths are measured between the distances of either crests or troughs. It is usually characterised by the Greek symbol lamda.