When a wave encounters a medium and its energy is absorbed, several things can happen depending on the type of wave and the properties of the medium:
1. In the case of mechanical waves, such as sound waves or water waves, the energy is transferred to the medium's particles causing them to vibrate or move. This can result in an increase in the temperature of the medium, known as thermal energy.
2. In the case of electromagnetic waves, such as light or radio waves, the energy can be absorbed by the atoms or molecules of the medium. This absorption can result in several effects:
- If the absorbed energy corresponds to a specific wavelength or frequency of the electromagnetic spectrum, it can excite the electrons of the atoms, causing them to move to higher energy levels. When the electrons return to their original energy levels, they release the absorbed energy as light or heat. This is the principle behind fluorescence or phosphorescence.
- In some cases, the absorbed energy can be converted into chemical energy, such as in photosynthesis where plants absorb light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
- The absorbed energy can also be converted into thermal energy, increasing the temperature of the medium.
In summary, when a wave's energy is absorbed, it is converted into other forms of energy such as heat, chemical energy, or light.
What happens to a wave when the energy is absorbed?
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