Why can't frequency of an electromagnetic wave change?

In summary, the relationship between velocity and wavelength is affected by changes in refractive index. Frequency, on the other hand, cannot change and experiments have shown this to be true. This is because incoming waves force particles at the interface to vibrate at the same frequency, causing the wave to travel through matter at the same frequency as the incoming wave. This is why the speed of light cannot remain constant if frequency and wavelength change.
  • #1
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I understand the relationship between velocity and wavelength when the refractive index changes but I can't fully understand why frequency cannot change. What would happen if it did? why can't the speed of light stay constant as frequency and wavelength change to keep it. Is it because of experiments that we know it is constant?

I want a better understanding of why it cannot change.
 
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  • #2
You can accept that it follows from experiment. But you can also imagine that an incoming wave forces the particles of matter at the interface vibrate at the same rate as its frequency. These vibration of the particles next to the interface force the neighbouring particles to vibrate and so the wave travels in the matter, with the same frequency as the incoming one.

ehild
 

1. Why can't the frequency of an electromagnetic wave change?

The frequency of an electromagnetic wave is determined by the source of the wave, which is usually an oscillating charged particle. The frequency is directly related to the speed of oscillation of the charged particle and cannot be changed without altering the source itself.

2. Can the frequency of an electromagnetic wave be altered by changing its wavelength?

No, changing the wavelength of an electromagnetic wave does not affect its frequency. Wavelength and frequency are inversely proportional, meaning that as one increases, the other decreases. However, this does not change the underlying frequency of the wave.

3. Is the frequency of an electromagnetic wave constant?

Yes, the frequency of an electromagnetic wave is constant and does not change as the wave travels through space. This is one of the fundamental properties of electromagnetic radiation.

4. What factors can affect the frequency of an electromagnetic wave?

The frequency of an electromagnetic wave can be affected by the properties of the medium through which it is traveling. For example, the frequency of a wave traveling through a medium with a higher refractive index will be lower compared to the same wave traveling through a medium with a lower refractive index.

5. Can the frequency of an electromagnetic wave be altered by external forces?

Yes, certain external forces such as magnetic fields can alter the frequency of an electromagnetic wave. This phenomenon, known as the Zeeman effect, is a result of the interaction between the electromagnetic wave and the magnetic field, causing a splitting of the spectral lines.

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