PhysicsChapter 3: Waves
Mechanical Versus Electromagnetic Waves
Definition
Mechanical Waves
Mechanical waves require a material medium. Examples: * sound; * water waves; * seismic waves. They are produced by oscillations of particles in matter.
Electromagnetic Waves
Electromagnetic waves do not require a material medium and can travel through vacuum. Examples: radio waves; microwaves; * visible light; * X-rays; * gamma rays.
Main Comparison
Mechanical → medium required Electromagnetic → vacuum possible Mechanical wave speed depends strongly on medium. Electromagnetic waves in vacuum travel at approximately: **3.0 × 10⁸ m/s**
Exam preparation
Exam Focus
Quick revision
Revision Zone
Review the key facts, formulas and checks before you move on.Mechanical Versus Electromagnetic Waves
Sticky Notes · Quick Revision
MECHANICAL
- Needs medium
EM
- No medium required
LIGHT
- EM wave
60-second revision
- Mechanical → needs medium
- EM → no medium required
- Light → EM wave
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