Why Does Light Behave Differently Than Other Electromagnetic Waves?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the behavior of light as an electromagnetic wave, particularly why it does not pass through opaque objects like other electromagnetic waves, such as radio waves. Participants also explore the effects of magnetic fields on light and the concepts of cohesive and adhesive forces in relation to energy generation.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question why light does not pass through opaque objects while other electromagnetic waves do, suggesting that not all electromagnetic waves can penetrate all materials.
  • One participant points out that ultraviolet light does not pass through the body and can cause sunburn, indicating that different types of electromagnetic waves interact differently with materials.
  • Another participant notes that light does not have a charge, which may explain why it is not affected by magnetic fields.
  • There is a suggestion that the interaction of light with materials depends on the energy range of the light and the properties of the material itself, implying that absorption characteristics play a crucial role.
  • Concerns are raised about the clarity of communication, with a request for improved grammar in the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the behavior of light compared to other electromagnetic waves, with no consensus reached on the reasons behind these differences. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific interactions of light with materials and the effects of magnetic fields.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the importance of material properties in determining light propagation, but the discussion does not delve into the specific mechanisms or definitions involved. There are also mentions of energy ranges and absorption without detailed exploration of these concepts.

aby001234
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If light is an electromagnetic wave then y does it not travel any opaque object becoz all electromagnetic waves like radio waves pass thru all materials?
y is light not affected by magnetic field?
Can cohesive and adhesive forces be used to generate energy?
If yes then why and if no then why?
from where does cohesive or adhesive energy come from?
Plz help...
 
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aby001234 said:
If light is an electromagnetic wave then y does it not travel any opaque object becoz all electromagnetic waves like radio waves pass thru all materials?
What makes you think that all electromagnetic waves pass through all materials?
y is light not affected by magnetic field?
Why should it be?
 
I don't know about you, but ultraviolet does not pass through my body, it gives me sunburn. Don't try passing microwaves through your body, they will cook you if they are strong enough (because they DON'T go through, they excite various molecules). The list goes on and on.
 
Light doesn't have a charge does it? So it won't be affected by a magnetic field. There are different types of light, they have different frequencies so some types won't travel through some things whereas some will.Can you try tidying your grammar, I had a bit of trouble reading what you said.
 
aby001234 said:
If light is an electromagnetic wave then y does it not travel any opaque object becoz all electromagnetic waves like radio waves pass thru all materials?

You are forgetting a SECOND player in this scenario - the nature of the material! What dictates how light propagate through a material isn't just a function of light, but also how that material behaves. If the material has some energy range where light in this energy is absorbed, then that light doesn't get transmitted.

Please read the FAQ thread in the General Physics forum as a start.

Note that, per the PF Rules, we do not condone "text speak" postings.

Zz.
 

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