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.