Light waves traveling through air

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SUMMARY

Light waves, classified as transverse electromagnetic waves, propagate through air without requiring it as a medium. Unlike mechanical waves, which depend on shear stress and cannot exist in gases, light can travel through air due to its nature as an electromagnetic wave. The presence of air does not facilitate light propagation; instead, it can act as an obstruction. This distinction highlights the fundamental differences between electromagnetic and mechanical wave behavior.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic wave theory
  • Knowledge of wave propagation principles
  • Familiarity with transverse and mechanical wave characteristics
  • Basic concepts of shear stress in different media
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  • Research the properties of electromagnetic waves
  • Study the differences between mechanical and electromagnetic waves
  • Explore the concept of wave propagation in various media
  • Learn about shear stress and its implications in wave mechanics
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Students of physics, educators in wave mechanics, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of light and wave propagation.

Ajay.makhecha
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Even though light is a transverse wave it travels through air . Why?
 
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Hi,

It propagates. Just like a wave in the water is transverse and still propagates.
 
Light is not a mechanical wave through air. Indeed you cannot have transverse mechanical waves in a gas because these (the mechanical waves) rely on shear stress in the medium. But light does not need the air to propagate, air is more "in the way" rather than an element necessary for propagation of EM waves.
 
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