5. Properties of EM wave
1. EM waves are transverse wave.
2. Do not require any medium for travel.
3. Travel at speed of 3x108 ms-1 in
vacuum.
4. Can be reflected
or refracted.
6. 5. All EM wave obeys the wave equation.
v =f x λ
Where v = speed of wave (m/s)
f = frequency of wave (Hz)
λ = wavelength (m)
6. Their frequencies do not change as they pass
from one medium to another.
But their speed and wavelength will change.
7. Applications
Gamma rays :
It can cause serious illness due to
great penetrating ability.
when used in controlled conditions,
gamma rays is useful in cancer
treatment.
Visible Light
Used in optical fibres and
telecommunications
8. X-rays :
• diagnostic tool in
dentistry and
medicine
• at airports inspect
the content of your
luggage
• used to find cracks
in structures
9. Ultra-violet :
• used in hospitals to
sterilize the surgical
instruments
• Operation theatres as it
kills bacteria and viruses
Microwaves :
• Analysis of fine details of
molecular and atomic structure
• Telephone communication
10. Radio waves :
Radio and television
communication
Radar & satellite communication
Navigation or ships & aircrafts