In classical physics, electromagnetic radiation is the movement of energy through a material medium or across space in the form of the electric and magnetic fields that make up electromagnetic waves. These may include radio waves, visible light, and gamma rays. Time-varying magnetic and electric fields are connected at right angles and perpendicular to the direction of motion in such a wave. The strength and frequency of the temporal fluctuation of the electric and magnetic fields define an electromagnetic wave.
Even though each of these waves performs a variety of functions (e.g., light waves make objects visible to the human eye, heat waves cause molecules to move and warm up, and x-rays can pass through a person and land on film, allowing us to take a picture inside someone’s body), they all share some characteristics.
They are all formed of microscopic particles that move in waves, much like the waves at a beach or sound waves. The precise relationship between the waves and the particles is unknown to scientists. Since electromagnetic radiation propagates in waves, we can distinguish between the different types by measuring the wavelength, or length, of the waves. This helps us determine various types of radiations.
There are several types of electromagnetic radiation around us, including radio waves, microwaves, X-rays, and gamma rays. The electromagnetic spectrum, which spans a wide variety of wavelengths, includes visible light, also a type of electromagnetic energy.
Electromagnetic Waves
Fans of comic books, associated cartoons, TV shows, and movies are likely already aware of the story of the guy who unintentionally exposed himself to electromagnetic radiation in Dublin. Despite the intriguing plot, exposure to gamma rays results in severe physical harm rather than superhuman abilities.
Of all electromagnetic waves, gamma rays have the most energy.
The range of all EM radiation types is known as the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum. The visible light from a bulb in your home and radio waves from a radio station are two examples of electromagnetic radiation in Dublin. Radiation moves and disperses. Microwaves, infrared light, ultraviolet light, X-rays, and gamma rays are the other EM radiation types that make up the electromagnetic spectrum.
Contrary to popular belief, you may be more familiar with the electromagnetic spectrum.
Key Takeaways
Most electromagnetic energy from space cannot reach the Earth’s surface, and radio waves and ultraviolet light are the only light that matches sea level. Astronomers can see some infrared wavelengths by mounting telescopes on mountain peaks. Experiments in balloons can operate for months and reach altitudes of 35 kilometers. Instruments can be carried in rocket flights above the Earth’s atmosphere, but only briefly before falling to the planet.
