An electromagnetic field is a physical field that occurs between electrically charged particles. It is one among the four fundamental forces of nature, the other includes strong interaction, weak interaction, and gravitation. Let us know more about the electromagnetic field structure.
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Electromagnetic Field
The electromagnetic field affects the change in the behaviour of charged objects surrounding a particular place. It extends indefinitely throughout space and is known as electromagnetic interactions.
It is a combination of an electric field and a magnetic field and is often considered as the source of the electromagnetic field. The electric field is generated by stationary charges, while the magnetic field is produced by moving charges. Here you can find out the difference between electric field and magnetic field.
Lorentz Force Law and Maxwell’s Equation explains how the interaction between currents and charges occurs with the electromagnetic field.
Electromagnetic Field Structure
The structure of electromagnetic field can be classified in two distinct methods: Continuous Structure and Discrete Structure.
Continuous Structure
Magnetic and electric fields are produced by an even motion of charged objects. The oscillating charges that produce magnetic and electric fields can be observed in a continuous, smooth and wavelike motion. The energy is observed as being continuous transfer between two electromagnetic field locations.
Discrete Structure
Several experiments have revealed that in a particular circumstance the electromagnetic energy flows in a fixed frequency or a more harsh way in case of a photon. The Planck’s constant link the photon energy to its frequency. The equation is given below:
Here,
E = Photon Energy
h = Planck’s Constant
v = Frequency of Photon
Sources of Electromagnetic Fields:
Natural Sources:
The electromagnetic field can be seen everywhere in the surrounding area, but it is invisible to the human eye. The electric fields are produced by the electric charges that are present in the environment associated with thunderstorms. While the magnetic field of the earth causes the compass needle to move in a North-South Direction. This is used as navigation for fish and birds.
Man-Made Sources:
Apart from the natural sources, the electromagnetic field also includes the energy generated by man-made sources. Few human-made electromagnetic field sources are x-rays, electricity passing through the power socket and more. It depends on the frequency of radio waves and how they are associated. For example, high frequency waves are used for broadcasting information through radio stations, television antennas, and mobile networks.
See the video below, to understand what electricity is.
Hope you have understood the electromagnetic field structure and the sources of electromagnetic fields. Stay tuned with BYJU’S to explore interesting topics on electromagnetic waves, electric charge and many more. Join us and fall in love with learning.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
Define electromagnetic force.
It is the fundamental force associated with electric and magnetic fields. The electromagnetic force is a type of physical interaction that occurs between electrically charged particles.
Which are the fundamental forces?
The following are the types of fundamental forces:
- Gravitational force
- Weak Nuclear force
- Electromagnetic force
- Strong Nuclear force
What are the types of electromagnetic field structure?
- Continuous Structure
- Discrete Structure
State true or false: Electromagnetic force is one of the fundamental forces in nature.
Give some examples of human-made electromagnetic field sources
- x-rays
- electricity passing through the power socket
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