Characteristics of EM Waves Simulation
Visualizing the interplay of electric and magnetic fields in an electromagnetic wave.
The Concept
Electromagnetic (EM) waves are produced by accelerating electric charges (for example, electrons oscillating in an antenna). A changing electric field creates a changing magnetic field, which in turn creates a changing electric field, so the two fields keep regenerating each other as the wave travels. They are unique in that they do not require a medium to travel and can propagate through the vacuum of space. Key characteristics include:
- Electric ($\vec{E}$) and magnetic ($\vec{B}$) fields are perpendicular to each other.
- Both fields are perpendicular to the direction of propagation.
- They oscillate in phase.
- They travel at the speed of light ($c$) in a vacuum.
What to look for
- Observe the oscillating electric (blue) and magnetic (red) field vectors in the 3D View.
- See how they propagate along the chosen direction (X-axis).
- In the Parallel View, observe the E-field and B-field as separate 2D sine waves to clearly see their synchronized oscillation.
- The simulation shows propagation along the X-axis, with E-field along Y and B-field along a simulated Z (out of/into screen).
Controls
EM Wave Properties
The Electric (blue) and Magnetic (red) fields oscillate perpendicular to each other and to the direction of propagation (X-axis).
Speed of light ($c$): $3 \times 10^8$ m/s (conceptual constant in simulation: $300$ units/sec)
Real-time Physics
Frequency ($f$): -- units/sec
Period ($T$): -- sec
Wavenumber ($k$): -- units$^{-1}$
Angular Freq ($\omega$): -- rad/sec