Where Does Electromagnetic Energy Go?

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SUMMARY

When an electric bulb is switched off, the electromagnetic energy emitted by the bulb is not destroyed but rather absorbed by surrounding objects in the room. This energy transitions from electromagnetic waves to thermal energy, which is stored in the vibrations of atoms. This process illustrates the principle of conservation of energy, confirming that energy can change forms but cannot be created or destroyed.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the conservation of energy principle
  • Basic knowledge of electromagnetic waves
  • Familiarity with atomic structure and thermal energy
  • Concept of energy transformation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of energy conservation in physics
  • Explore the properties of electromagnetic waves
  • Study atomic vibrations and their relation to thermal energy
  • Investigate energy transformation processes in different systems
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators explaining energy concepts, and anyone interested in the fundamental principles of energy transformation and conservation.

mak_phy
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Hi all physics lovers,
please bear with my question as its like a kid wondering about something :)
Energy can neither be created nor be destroyed. So when I switch off an electric bulb, there is darkness. So where does the electromagnetic energy go? :confused:
Thank you.
 
Last edited:
Science news on Phys.org
It gets absorbed by objects in the room. The energy goes from electromagnetic waves to being stored in the jiggling of atoms.
 

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