Radio waves emitted by an antenna - Bremsstrahlung radiation?

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SUMMARY

Radio waves emitted by an antenna can be related to Bremsstrahlung radiation, as both phenomena arise from the acceleration of charges. The Larmor formula applies to nonrelativistic charges, while the Lienard formula is relevant for relativistic charges. However, the term Bremsstrahlung is often misapplied; it specifically refers to the deceleration of charged particles in matter, such as electrons slowing down when interacting with atoms. The discussion clarifies that Bremsstrahlung is not applicable to radiation from oscillating currents.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Larmor formula for nonrelativistic charges
  • Familiarity with the Lienard formula for relativistic charges
  • Knowledge of Bremsstrahlung radiation and its specific context
  • Basic principles of electromagnetic radiation and antenna theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Larmor formula and its applications in electromagnetic theory
  • Study the Lienard formula and its implications for relativistic particles
  • Explore the specific conditions under which Bremsstrahlung radiation occurs
  • Investigate the principles of antenna design and the nature of oscillating currents
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Physicists, electrical engineers, and students of electromagnetism seeking to deepen their understanding of radiation phenomena and the distinctions between different types of radiation.

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Would radio waves emitted by an antenna be considered Bremsstrahlung radiation caused by pushing the electrons back and forth?
 
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Yes in the sense that they both arise from the same effect, namely radiation emitted by an accelerating charge. Given by the Larmor formula for a nonrelativistic charge and the Lienard formula for a relativistic one.

However the term Bremsstrahlung is unfortunately used in situations which don't really deserve the term. Strictly speaking, Bremsstrahlung only applies to the deceleration of a charged particle entering matter, such as the slowing of an electron when it encounters an atom. The radiation emitted by particles in a particle accelerator is sometimes called Bremsstrahlung, but it ain't.
 
'Bremsstrahlung' is also used for photons emitted during the scattering of a particle.
In my experience, Bremsstrahlung refers to radiation by a single particle, not by an oscillating current.
 

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