Does EM Wave Induce Current at a Distance?

[sid_galt]

Does EM wave have to actually strike a surface to induce current or can the EM fields induce current from a distance?

 

[Gza]

You speak of two different physical phenomena when discussing EM waves, and electric and magnetic fields (EM fields as you collectively call them), as if they are the same. They are obviously very closesly related, since an EM wave is nothing more than the propogation of E and M fields through space; but yet not the same. In the case of fields, yes, you induce current from a distance every day when using any electrical device. In the case of a battery for instance, current is being induced over a distance including the distance between the positive and negative terminals of the battery when connected to a circuit. In an EM wave's case however, I ask you to consider the analogy of an ocean wave knocking over a sandcastle on the beach. What you ask in your question, in effect is; can the wave knock over the sandcastle before even reaching it?

 

[Graeme Robinson]

Electromagnetic waves (EM waves) are a type of energy that travels through space in the form of oscillating electric and magnetic fields. These waves can induce current in conductors, which are materials that allow electric charges to flow freely.

To answer the question, yes, EM waves can induce current at a distance. This is because the electric and magnetic fields associated with the wave can interact with the charges in a conductor, causing them to move and thus creating an electric current.

However, the strength of the induced current will depend on the distance between the EM wave and the conductor. The closer the wave is to the conductor, the stronger the induced current will be. This is because the electric and magnetic fields decrease in strength as they travel further away from their source.

So, while it is possible for EM waves to induce current at a distance, the strength of the current may be weaker compared to when the wave is in close proximity to the conductor. Additionally, the type of conductor and its orientation relative to the EM wave can also affect the strength of the induced current.

In summary, EM waves can induce current at a distance, but the strength of the current will vary depending on the distance between the wave and the conductor, as well as other factors such as the type of conductor and its orientation.