nature of em waves

electric field

• region where a charged particle is capable of repelling or attracting charged material

• charged particle or body that produces an electric field around itself

• particle will experience an electric force

• static electricity — created by a charged body

magnetic field

• region where magnet is capable of repelling or attracting force on magnetic material

  → same charges = repel

  → opposite charges = attract

• uses n (north) and s (south)

electromagnetic waves

• interplay between electric & magnetic fields

• electromagnetic waves — produced by accelerating charged particles oscillating about an equilibrium position

  → x = magnetic field

  → y = electric field

  • form 90º

  → electric & magnetic fields vibrate perpendicularly & to the direction of the wave propagation

• crest — highest point

• trough — lowest point

• travel at the speed of light in a vacuum

  → c = 3.0×10⁸ m/s

• wave formula — velocity = (frequency)(wavelength)