I How does the magnetic component of an EM wave affect surroundings?

AI Thread Summary
Electromagnetic (EM) waves consist of electric and magnetic fields, but the interaction with conductors is complex. When light shines on conductors, phenomena like the photoelectric effect occur, where electrons are ejected from the material. The difference between radio and light waves lies in their energy, frequency, and wavelength, affecting how they interact with materials. While light does exert a force due to its momentum, the effects on conductors may be minimal compared to other interactions, such as those seen with radio waves. Understanding these principles clarifies why conductors respond differently to various EM wave frequencies.
Boltzman Oscillation
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Would the magnetic wave of an EM wave create a force on objects near the shone light?
Hi all, as we all know EM waves are made up of magnetic and electric waves in a plane perpendicular to the direction of propagation. Given this, why don't I see conductors being affected when I shine light at them? Woulnt the magnetism cause a force? Is is that the force is too small? What am i not understanding.
 
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Boltzman Oscillation said:
Given this, why don't I see conductors being affected when I shine light at them?
What happens if you shine radio or micro waves at a conductor? What's the difference between radio and light waves?
 
Boltzman Oscillation said:
Hi all, as we all know EM waves are made up of magnetic and electric waves ##~\dots##
Please count me out. What I think I know is that EM waves are made up of magnetic and electric fields. :oldsmile:
 
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Ibix said:
What happens if you shine radio or micro waves at a conductor? What's the difference between radio and light waves?
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.
 
Why do you say that conductors are not affected when you shine light at them? If light is affected by a conductor then the conductor must be affected by light. Have you wondered why a sheet of paper transmits light but not a sheet of aluminum foil?
 
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kuruman said:
Why do you say that conductors are not affected when you shine light at them? If light is affected by a conductor then the conductor must be affected by light. Have you wondered why a sheet of paper transmits light but not a sheet of aluminum foil?
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!
 
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.
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.
 
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Boltzman Oscillation said:
Summary:: Would the magnetic wave of an EM wave create a force on objects near the shone light?

Is is that the force is too small?
Probably. Light has momentum which can be measured.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nichols_radiometer
 
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