Measuring the frequency of the e.m. oscillations in the em. wave

In summary, an observer in a plane sinusoidal and polarized e.m. wave can measure the frequency by erecting a metalic antenna normal to the direction of propagation, which results in a sinusoidal potential difference with the same frequency as the e.m. wave. However, the type of polarization (linear, circular, or elliptical) may affect the accuracy of the measurement. Additional insights can be found in the linked wiki article.
  • #1
bernhard.rothenstein
991
1
Consider please that an observer is located in a plane sinusoidal and polarized e.m. wave. He erects a metalic antenna normal to the direction of propagation. A sinusoidal potential difference appears between the two ends of the antenna having the same frequency as the e.m. has. Is that a correct way to measure the frequency?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #3
bernhard.rothenstein said:
Is that a correct way to measure the frequency?
Yes...
 

1. How do you measure the frequency of an electromagnetic wave?

The frequency of an electromagnetic wave can be measured using an instrument called a spectrophotometer. This device uses a diffraction grating or prism to split the light into its component wavelengths, and then measures the intensity of each wavelength. The frequency of the wave can then be calculated using the equation f=c/λ, where c is the speed of light and λ is the wavelength.

2. What is the relationship between frequency and wavelength in electromagnetic waves?

The frequency and wavelength of an electromagnetic wave are inversely proportional to each other. This means that as the frequency increases, the wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation f=c/λ, where f is the frequency, c is the speed of light, and λ is the wavelength.

3. Why is it important to measure the frequency of electromagnetic waves?

Measuring the frequency of electromagnetic waves is important because it allows us to understand and study the properties of light and other electromagnetic radiation. It also allows us to classify different types of electromagnetic radiation based on their frequency, such as radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays.

4. How is the frequency of an electromagnetic wave related to its energy?

The frequency of an electromagnetic wave is directly proportional to its energy. This means that as the frequency increases, the energy of the wave also increases, and vice versa. This relationship is described by the equation E=hf, where E is the energy, h is Planck's constant, and f is the frequency.

5. Can the frequency of an electromagnetic wave be changed?

Yes, the frequency of an electromagnetic wave can be changed by altering the source of the wave or by passing it through a medium. For example, the frequency of a radio wave can be changed by changing the frequency of the radio signal, and the frequency of visible light can be changed when it passes through a prism. However, in a vacuum, the frequency of an electromagnetic wave remains constant as it travels.

Similar threads

Replies
20
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
9
Views
926
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
15
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
9
Views
7K
Replies
4
Views
3K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
4
Views
965
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
8
Views
2K
Back
Top