8. ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES
The chapter discusses electromagnetic waves, beginning with the concept of displacement current introduced by Maxwell to reconcile inconsistencies in Ampere's law. It highlights Maxwell's equations, the relationship between electric and magnetic fields, and the generation of electromagnetic waves through accelerated charges. Additionally, the chapter outlines the electromagnetic spectrum and its various applications in technology.
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Sections
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What we have learnt
- Maxwell introduced the concept of displacement current to resolve inconsistencies in traditional Ampere's law, leading to the realization that both electric fields and conduction currents generate magnetic fields.
- Electromagnetic waves consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space, and their properties are governed by Maxwell’s equations.
- The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses various types of waves including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays, each with distinct production mechanisms and applications.
Key Concepts
- -- Displacement Current
- A term introduced by Maxwell to represent the current associated with a changing electric field, allowing for the continuity and consistency in electromagnetic theory.
- -- Maxwell's Equations
- A set of four fundamental equations that describe how electric and magnetic fields interact and propagate as electromagnetic waves.
- -- Electromagnetic Spectrum
- The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation sorted by wavelength and frequency, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays.
- -- Electromagnetic Waves
- Waves that carry electromagnetic energy consisting of oscillating electric and magnetic fields, propagating through space without the need for a medium.
Additional Learning Materials
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