Electromagnetic Waves Physics Example 3

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Example 3

medium
A microwave oven operates at a frequency of 2.45×109 Hz2.45 \times 10^9 \text{ Hz}. What is the wavelength of the microwaves? Use c=3×108 m/sc = 3 \times 10^8 \text{ m/s}.

Solution

  1. 1
    Wavelength: λ=cf=3×1082.45×109\lambda = \frac{c}{f} = \frac{3 \times 10^8}{2.45 \times 10^9}.
  2. 2
    λ=0.122 m≈12.2 cm\lambda = 0.122 \text{ m} \approx 12.2 \text{ cm}

Answer

λ≈12.2 cm\lambda \approx 12.2 \text{ cm}
Microwaves are electromagnetic waves with wavelengths in the centimeter range. In a microwave oven, this wavelength resonates with water molecules, causing them to rotate and generate heat.

About Electromagnetic Waves

Transverse waves consisting of oscillating electric and magnetic fields that are perpendicular to each other and to the direction of propagation.

Learn more about Electromagnetic Waves →

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