Transfer of Energy by EM Waves (AQA GCSE Physics)

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Transfer of Energy by EM Waves

  • Electromagnetic (EM) waves carry energy and so can transfer energy from one point to another point
  • EM radiation is an energy transfer pathway
  • EM waves with a shorter wavelength carry a higher energy
    • This includes UV, X-rays and gamma rays

  • The higher the energy of the EM wave, the more dangerous it is

Energy Transfer by Microwaves

  • Water molecules absorb certain wavelengths of microwave radiation
  • Therefore, microwave ovens transfer energy by radiation to the thermal store of the food placed inside it

Microwave Oven, downloadable IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes

Energy transfer in a microwave oven

Energy Transfer by Infrared

  • All hot objects emit infrared radiation
  • The emitted waves can then be absorbed by other objects, warming them up
  • Therefore energy is transferred by radiation to the thermal store of the object (and the surroundings)

Energy Transfers from the Sun

  • The Sun emits several types of EM radiation, including:
    • Visible light waves allow living creatures to see
    • Infrared waves heat up the Earth
    • Ultraviolet waves cause suntans and sunburn

  • Energy from the Sun is transferred by radiation

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Katie M

Author: Katie M

Expertise: Physics

Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.