DMPQ: What is electromagnetic waves? Outline the features of electromagnetic waves? (Science)

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.

 

Properties of electromagnetic waves:

  • EM waves are composed of oscillating electric and magnetic fields at right angles to each other and both are perpendicular to the direction of propogation.
  • They travel with a constant velocity of 3×108m/s in vaccum.
  • They are not deflected by an electric and magnetic field.
  • They are transverse waves which can show interference and diffraction and may be polarised