How do electromagnetic waves propagate in space without a medium?

How do electromagnetic waves propagate in space without a medium?

5 Views | Posted 5 months ago

1 Answer

Answered by

Pallavi Pathak | Contributor-Level 10

5 months ago

Electromagnetic waves do not require a medium to propagate because they generate self-sustaining oscillations of magnetic and electric fields. Hence, it can travel through the vacuum of space. A changing magnetic field generates an electric field and vice versa. This property allows the wave to carry energy across space. The phenomenon is applicable to sunlight and other forms of EM radiation that travel through space to reach Earth. They cover millions of kilometers while reaching Earth. The EM wave theory is fundamental to understanding phenomena like cosmic observations, satellite communication, and solar radiation.

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