What happens if you shine radio or micro waves at a conductor? What's the difference between radio and light waves?Boltzman Oscillation said:
Please count me out. What I think I know is that EM waves are made up of magnetic and electric fields.Boltzman Oscillation said:
Err when you asked me this I thought about the fact (i forgot the name) that if you shine light to a conductor then some of the electrons of the material will be sent flying out of the material. Oh, the photoelectric effect. Difference between radio and micro waves are many: energy, frequency, wavelength.Ibix said:
Now that I was reminded of the photoelectric effect then I know conductors are affected by light. Thank you for the thought producing questions, they helped me remember things and make new neurological connections!kuruman said:
I think your view of electromagnetic radiation is too simplistic. Have a look at this and see if it makes sense.Boltzman Oscillation said:
I was actually thinking of a radio antenna, where an EM wave clearly makes electrons oscillate. Higher frequency EM does that too, but the effects aren't the same because the wave is higher frequency - see, for example, kuruman's post.Boltzman Oscillation said:
Probably. Light has momentum which can be measured.Boltzman Oscillation said:
The magnetic component of an electromagnetic (EM) wave interacts with matter through the movement of charged particles. The magnetic field of the EM wave causes the charged particles within matter to oscillate, creating their own magnetic fields. This interaction can result in various effects, such as inducing electric currents or causing the molecules in matter to vibrate.
Yes, the magnetic component of an EM wave can cause physical changes in matter. For example, when the EM wave's magnetic field induces electric currents in conductive materials, it can generate heat or even cause the material to melt or vaporize. Additionally, the magnetic component of an EM wave can also cause the alignment of particles within matter, resulting in changes in its magnetic properties.
The strength of the magnetic component of an EM wave plays a significant role in its impact on matter. A stronger magnetic field can induce stronger electric currents and cause more significant physical changes in matter. Additionally, the strength of the magnetic field can also affect the penetration depth of the EM wave into matter, with stronger fields being able to penetrate deeper into materials.
Yes, the magnetic component of an EM wave can be shielded or blocked. Materials such as iron, nickel, and cobalt are highly effective at blocking magnetic fields. Additionally, certain types of conductive materials, such as copper or aluminum, can also block or redirect magnetic fields. However, the effectiveness of shielding or blocking depends on the strength and frequency of the EM wave.
There is currently no scientific evidence to suggest that the magnetic component of an EM wave poses any significant health risks. However, extremely strong magnetic fields, such as those found in MRI machines, can cause physiological effects in the body. These effects are typically temporary and are not considered harmful. The World Health Organization has deemed the magnetic component of EM waves to be safe for human exposure at levels typically encountered in daily life.