All Flashcards
Define electromagnetic waves.
Transverse waves created by vibrating charged particles that can travel through a vacuum.
Define wavelength (λ).
The distance between two successive crests or troughs of a wave.
Define frequency (f).
The number of complete wave cycles that pass a point in a given unit of time, usually measured in Hertz (Hz).
Define the electromagnetic spectrum.
The entire range of electromagnetic waves, categorized by their wavelengths and frequencies.
Define the speed of light (c).
The speed at which all electromagnetic waves travel in a vacuum, approximately .
Define transverse wave.
A wave where the oscillations are perpendicular to the direction of energy transfer.
Label the electric field, magnetic field, and direction of propagation in a diagram of an electromagnetic wave.
1: Electric Field, 2: Magnetic Field, 3: Direction of Propagation
How are electromagnetic waves generated?
Electromagnetic waves are generated by the vibration of charged particles, which creates oscillating electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space.
Describe how to calculate frequency given wavelength and speed of light.
- Recall the formula:
- Rearrange the formula to solve for frequency:
- Substitute the values of the speed of light (c) and wavelength (λ) into the formula.
- Calculate the frequency (f).