2007-12-02 07:28:21 · 2 answers · asked by Monkjitsu 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
When electrons move, they create a magnetic field. When electrons move back and forth or oscillate, their electric and magnetic fields change together, forming an electromagnetic wave. This oscillation can come from atoms being heated and thus moving about rapidly or from alternating current (AC) electricity.
The opposite effect occurs when an electromagnetic wave hits matter. In such a case, it could cause atoms to vibrate, creating heat, or it can cause electrons to oscillate, depending on the wavelength of the radiation.
2007-12-02 07:50:08 · answer #1 · answered by J.S.Jr. 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A charge creates the electric field and a moving charge creates a magnetic field. The fields created do not exist everywhere when it is created. It must move out from the source (It propagates through space). The speed at which these fields move is at the speed of light. The strength of the electric and magnetic fileds are constantly changing and their patterns are that of a wave. Put this all together and you have electromagnetic waves
2007-12-02 07:39:30 · answer #2 · answered by Brian 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋