Properties of Electromagnetic Waves (Edexcel GCSE Physics)

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Properties of EM Waves

  • Electromagnetic waves are defined as:

Transverse waves that transfer energy from the source of the waves to an absorber

  • All electromagnetic waves share the following properties:
    • They are all transverse
    • They can all travel through a vacuum
    • They all travel at the same speed in a vacuum

  • There are 7 types of electromagnetic waves, which all together form a continuous spectrum

EM spectrum diagram, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

The electromagnetic spectrum

Transfer of Energy by EM Waves

  • Electromagnetic (EM) waves carry energy and so can transfer energy from one point to another point
  • 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 from the electronics to heat 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

Leslie-cube, IGCSE & GCSE Physics revision notes

Infrared camera vs. normal camera on a Leslie cube

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 provide plants with the energy for photosynthesis which they need to grow

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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.