Electromagnetic Waves

Part 7: Electromagnetic Waves

This part introduces electromagnetic waves, which are oscillating electric and magnetic fields that transport energy through space. Building on the concepts of electricity and magnetism developed in the previous parts, you will learn how electromagnetic waves are generated, how they propagate at the speed of light, and how Maxwell’s equations unified electricity, magnetism, and optics into a single theory. You will also explore the electromagnetic spectrum and examine how electromagnetic radiation interacts with matter.

The concepts developed in this part provide the foundation for understanding many technologies used in communication, medicine, and scientific research. Electromagnetic waves are the basis of wireless communication, medical imaging, laser surgery, radiation therapy, optical microscopy, and many diagnostic techniques. Understanding the properties of electromagnetic radiation is essential for using these technologies effectively and safely.

This part contains the following chapters:

58. Introduction to Electromagnetic Waves
59. Maxwell’s Equations: Electromagnetic Waves Predicted and Observed
60. Production of Electromagnetic Waves
61. The Electromagnetic Spectrum
62. Energy in Electromagnetic Waves