Radio Waves & Penetration: Why Can They Pass Through Walls?

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SUMMARY

Radio waves can penetrate walls due to their longer wavelengths compared to visible light, which cannot pass through solid objects. The penetration capability is influenced by both the frequency of the radio waves and the thickness of the wall, as different materials interact with electromagnetic frequencies in unique ways. Thicker walls generally provide better screening against radio waves, leading to reflection or absorption depending on the material composition.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic spectrum and frequencies
  • Knowledge of material properties and their interaction with EM waves
  • Familiarity with concepts of wave reflection and absorption
  • Basic principles of radio wave propagation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the electromagnetic spectrum and its various frequencies
  • Study the interaction of different materials with radio waves
  • Learn about wave reflection and absorption principles in physics
  • Explore radio wave propagation techniques and applications
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, engineers in telecommunications, and anyone interested in the principles of wave propagation and material interactions.

Bassel AbdulSabour
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Why do radio waves pass through walls while visible light can't?
I guess this has something to do wit the wavelength. What I know is that higher wavelength means higher ability of penetration. So why radio waves penetrate obstacles?
 
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Bassel AbdulSabour said:
I know is that higher wavelength means higher ability of penetration. So why radio waves penetrate obstacles?
Think about what you've just said; do you still have a question?:wink:
 
Bassel AbdulSabour said:
something to do wit the wavelength.
Actually it's both the frequency and the thickness of the wall in wavelengths. The electrons in the wall will interact very differently at different EM frequencies, depending on the actual material used and you can either get reflection or absorption of a wave. In general, though, you can say (obvs) that a thicker wall will screen better than a thin one.
 

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