Put some light on my concept of light.

In summary, the conversation discusses the representation of an electromagnetic wave and how it is limited by the amplitude of the wave. The speaker also expresses confusion about the complexities of light as an electromagnetic wave.
  • #1
Zubeen
57
0
In the way we represent an electromagnetic wave (click on http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4c/Electromagneticwave3D.gif) we limit the magnetic field vector and electric field vector till the limit of the amplitude of the wave. But how is it possible ? because, Magnetic and INDUCED electric field, both are continuous in nature... and further even if we are limiting them ... there can be only 1 such arrangement as like in capacitor for electric field...( parallel plates ).
The light, as an electromagnetic wave really makes me ! because of its complications and such surprising results.
please help me.
 
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  • #2
What do you mean by this?
Zubeen said:
we limit the magnetic field vector and electric field vector till the limit of the amplitude of the wave.

The representation is not an electromagnetic wave. It shows the electric and magnetic field strength (and direction) along a single line. In order to have a proper wave satisfying Maxwell's equations, you need these fields in the whole volume (as it is a planar wave). It would be messy to graph this, therefore the fields are shown for a single line only.
 

What is light?

Light is a form of electromagnetic radiation that is visible to the human eye. It is a type of energy that travels in waves and can be described by its wavelength, frequency, and energy. Light is essential for vision and plays a crucial role in many other natural processes.

How does light travel?

Light travels in a straight line through a medium. It can travel through a vacuum, such as in space, or through a medium, such as air or water. Light can also be reflected, refracted, or absorbed when it encounters different materials.

What is the speed of light?

The speed of light is approximately 299,792,458 meters per second (m/s). This is the fastest speed at which energy can travel in a vacuum. It is often denoted by the letter 'c' in scientific equations.

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all possible frequencies of electromagnetic radiation. This includes all types of light, from radio waves and microwaves to X-rays and gamma rays. Each type of light has a different wavelength and energy, which determines its properties and uses.

How is light used in science and technology?

Light is used in many different ways in science and technology. It is used in fields such as optics, astronomy, and medicine for observation and analysis. Light is also used in communication technologies, such as fiber optics and lasers, and in energy production, such as solar panels.

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