5.1 Electromagnetic Radiation

Wave motion The transfer of energy without matter is called wave motion Two Types

Wave Properties The number of waves produced each second is called the frequency measured in Hertz (Hz), which means cycles (waves) per second. Wavelength is the distance between two successive waves

When electric charges move, such as when an electric current passes through a wire, a magnetic field is generated around the wire. Similarly, a changing magnetic field generates and electric field. This property is used to generate electricity in a typical power station.

Electromagnetic Radiation Electromagnetic waves are generated naturally in our upper atmosphere and from stars, including our Sun. Visible light, microwaves and X-rays are examples of electromagnetic radiation. These forms of energy travel through space as electromagnetic waves.

Electromagnetic Spectrum The entire range of frequencies of electromagnetic radiation that can be produced is called the electromagnetic spectrum. This ranges from low energy radio waves, through to high energy gamma radiation.

What’s NASA have to say

Questions UNIT REVIEW 5.1 Remembering 1,2,3,