Propagating Wave: Explaining Oscillation & Sine Wave

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In electromagnetic (EM) waves, the oscillation represents the changing electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space. This oscillation means that a positive test charge in the field experiences a varying force due to these changing fields. The source of the wave, typically oscillating dipoles, generates the EM wave at the same frequency as their oscillation. Understanding this relationship is crucial for grasping how energy is transferred through the wave. The discussion emphasizes the connection between the source's oscillation and the resulting characteristics of the EM wave.
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Hi. Can someone explain for a propagating wave (ie an EM wave) when it is represented as oscillating and portrayed as a sine wave. What does the oscillation physically mean? Energy is being transferred as the wave propagates but what does the oscillation actually mean?
 
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Cerkit said:
what does the oscillation actually mean?
It means that a small positive test charge placed anywhere the field is oscillating would experience an oscillating force.
 
Ok. So what is it about the source of the wave that causes the oscillation?
 
I don't know what kind of an answer you are looking for here.
 
Cerkit said:
Ok. So what is it about the source of the wave that causes the oscillation?

Oscillating dipoles create EM-waves with the same frequency as the oscillation itself.
 
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