What Are the Effects of EM on Matter?

In summary, EM affects matter by interacting with electrons and can induce various reactions, some of which can lead to cancer.
  • #1
jq
2
0
I am trying to start a discussion on the Effects of EM on matter (biological, electronic and other matter).

I am trying to understand the relationship between quantities Electromagnetic (EM) and effects on matter. In particular many types of EM used for medical purposes and can reach certain parts of the body without effect others (Cutting,heating,imaging,resonating,flexing...) in (MRI,CAT,Laser Surgery...). I am trying to understand how this is possible and the quantiles involved. The formula E=hf is used to define absorption in my sources, but they talk about energy needed to bring to the atom to the next energy level?

-So usably given a mix (wave length, frequency) and (Watts or joules). From this I am attempting to find what matter will absorption the frequency? Especially when going through matter of different densities.
-And what quantities (Volts, Charge,Pressure,Force,Energy,Temperature) that matter will be induced with?
-Any known biological effects caused by Absorptions?
 
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  • #2
It is not a simple subject. For example, we all know that humans are not transparent in optical region, which means that light should be absorbed and reflected, mostly on skin. However you can see that laser lat can partially go through your hand.

X-rays can go deeper into body, and they can eventually go through the body. However, humans are not completely transparent in X-ray region as well, so we can look on something inside themusing this electromagnetic region.

Absorption really depends on the mechanism of the wave- charge interaction, which depends on what material you consider. basically electromagnetic wave interacts only with electrons. Ions are much heavier, they gain little speed under the wave, so it is more difficult for them to absorb energy.

There is also another effect, scattering. It is connected with absorption and reflection, but it make sense to consider it separately in case of non-uniform matter. For example, it is light scattering which is responsible for the image blurring when we see through the hot air.
 
  • #3
Another effect of EM on matter is ionization: the separation of electrons from their atoms. If the wavelength is appropriate, the absorbed EM can provide enough energy to an electron to allow it to abandon the atom.
Ionization then triggers chemical reactions. If those reactions occur in an atom in a molecule of DNA, the DNA will be altered and so will be cellular multiplication. This could even produce cancer.
Only very short wavelenghts (UV, gamma rays) will cause ionization. That is why those types of radiation can cause cancer.
 
  • #4
The effect of long-term exposure to long-wave radiation (such as that produced by mobile phones), particularly to the brain, has not been conclusively determined. If there is an effect, the mechanism is probably much more subtle than those mentioned already.

Claude.
 

1. What is EM radiation?

Electromagnetic (EM) radiation is a form of energy that is produced by moving electrically charged particles. It includes a wide range of frequencies, from radio waves to gamma rays, and is commonly referred to as light.

2. What are the effects of EM radiation on matter?

The effects of EM radiation on matter can vary depending on the intensity, frequency, and duration of exposure. Some common effects include heating, ionization, and chemical changes in matter. In extreme cases, high levels of EM radiation can cause damage to living cells and tissues.

3. How does EM radiation interact with matter?

EM radiation can interact with matter in several ways, depending on its frequency. Low-frequency radiation, such as radio waves, can pass through matter without much interaction. Higher frequency radiation, like visible light, can be absorbed or reflected by matter, causing it to heat up or change chemically. At very high frequencies, such as X-rays and gamma rays, EM radiation can ionize atoms and molecules, causing damage to biological tissues.

4. Can EM radiation be harmful to living organisms?

Yes, high levels of EM radiation can be harmful to living organisms. Exposure to certain frequencies and intensities of EM radiation can cause damage to cells, tissues, and DNA, leading to health issues such as skin burns, cancer, and genetic mutations. However, lower levels of EM radiation, such as those found in natural sunlight, are not considered harmful and can even be beneficial for health.

5. How can we protect ourselves from the effects of EM radiation?

There are several ways to protect ourselves from the effects of EM radiation, such as limiting exposure time and using protective equipment like lead aprons for X-rays. Additionally, reducing the use of electronic devices and keeping a safe distance from sources of high-frequency EM radiation, such as cell phone towers, can also help minimize potential harm. It is important to follow safety guidelines and regulations to protect ourselves from the potential negative effects of EM radiation.

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