Applications of Electromagnetic Waves

Long-wavelength waves (like radio waves) can travel far and bend around obstacles, while short-wavelength waves (like X-rays) can penetrate materials and reveal internal structures. This wide range of behaviors allows EM waves to be used in many creative ways.

• Used in AM/FM radio, television, mobile networks
• Good for long-distance communication
• Can diffract around obstacles and follow Earth's surface

• Used in satellite communication, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and radar
• Travel in straight lines (line-of-sight)
• Carry large amounts of data at high speed

• Used in TV remote controls, IR sensors and short-range data transfer
• Useful where low-power, short-distance communication is needed

• Used in fiber-optic communication
• Light pulses carry data through thin glass fibers
• Very high-speed internet and telecommunication systems rely on this

Infrared lamps are used for therapeutic heating. Thermal cameras detect temperature variations on the skin and help identify inflammation.

Controlled UV exposure is used for sterilisation and treating skin conditions. UV light kills bacteria and viruses efficiently.

X-rays penetrate soft tissue but are absorbed by bones. This contrast helps create imaging of bones, teeth and internal structures. X-rays are also used in CT scans for detailed 3D imaging.

High-energy gamma rays are used in cancer treatment (radiotherapy). Focused beams destroy cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding tissue.

Microwaves are used for drying, heating and curing in manufacturing processes. Their ability to heat materials quickly makes them ideal for industrial ovens.

Infrared sensors detect heat leaks, monitor machinery temperature and help in predictive maintenance.

UV lamps help sterilise equipment and purify water by killing microbes. UV curing hardens inks, glues and coatings rapidly.

• Used for non-destructive testing of welds and metal structures
• Reveal internal cracks and faults without damaging the object

• Remote controls
• Thermal cameras
• Heating appliances

• Lighting and displays
• Photography and filming
• Laser pointers

• Fluorescent lamps
• Security markings
• Disinfection devices

Microwave ovens heat food by vibrating water molecules inside it. This makes heating fast and convenient.

Radio telescopes study radio waves from planets, pulsars and galaxies. They help detect objects hidden behind dust clouds.

Infrared telescopes detect heat from distant stars and planets. Visible light telescopes capture images in the part of the spectrum we can see.

High-energy telescopes observe supernovae, neutron stars, black holes and gamma-ray bursts. These reveal the most energetic processes in the universe.