Electromagnetic Wave Properties to Know for AP Physics 2

Electromagnetic Waves

Waves composed of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space.

Wave Nature

Electromagnetic radiation exhibits wave behaviors like reflection, refraction, diffraction, and interference.

Speed of Light

Approximately 3.00 x 10^8 m/s in a vacuum, represented by the symbol c.

Electromagnetic Spectrum

Includes all forms of electromagnetic radiation, categorized by wavelength and frequency.

Frequency-Wavelength Relationship

Frequency and wavelength are inversely related by the equation c = f λ.

Photon Energy

Proportional to frequency; described by E = hf, where h is Planck's constant.

Polarization

The orientation of the electric field in an electromagnetic wave.

Reflection

Waves bounce off surfaces, following the law of reflection.

Refraction

Waves bend when moving between different media, governed by Snell's law.

Diffraction

Waves spread out when encountering obstacles or openings.

Interference

Overlapping waves create constructive or destructive patterns.

Doppler Effect

Describes frequency and wavelength changes due to relative motion between source and observer.

Intensity

Power per unit area, measured in watts per square meter (W/m²).

Inverse Square Law

Intensity decreases with the square of the distance from the source.

Electromagnetic Wave Equation

Describes how electric and magnetic fields propagate in space and time.

Poynting Vector

Represents energy flux in an electromagnetic wave: S = E × H.

Radiation Pressure

The force per unit area exerted by electromagnetic waves due to photon momentum.

Absorption of Electromagnetic Waves

Matter captures electromagnetic energy, raising temperature or exciting electrons.

Emission of Electromagnetic Waves

Matter releases energy as electromagnetic radiation.

Maxwell's Equations

Describe relationships between electric and magnetic fields, predicting wave propagation.