2. Electromagnetic Fields and Waves

Concept Explanation:
Electromagnetic waves are waves that consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that propagate through space at the speed of light. These waves are generated by the acceleration of charged particles, and they carry energy through space. Electromagnetic waves do not require a medium to travel and can move through a vacuum.

Wave Characteristics:
- Wavelength (λ): The distance between successive crests of a wave.
- Frequency (f): The number of oscillations per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
- Speed (c): The speed of light in a vacuum, approximately 3 × 10⁸ m/s.

The relationship between wavelength, frequency, and speed is given by:
c = λf

Example Problem:
Calculate the wavelength of an electromagnetic wave with a frequency of 5 GHz.

Solution:
Using the wave equation:
λ = c/f = 3 × 10⁸ m/s / 5 × 10⁹ Hz = 0.06 m = 6 cm
The wavelength of the wave is 6 cm.