How does an energy wave affect the matter it passes through?

1 answer

An energy wave can affect matter in various ways depending on the type of wave and the properties of the matter.

- Electromagnetic waves, such as light, can cause electrons in atoms to move, leading to the absorption or reflection of the wave. This can result in heating of the material or changes in its properties.

- Sound waves can cause the particles in a material to vibrate, which can result in the material expanding or contracting, or even changing its structure.

- Seismic waves can cause the ground to shake, leading to the movement of buildings and landscape features.

- In general, energy waves can transfer energy to matter, causing it to heat up, vibrate, or change in some way. This can have various effects depending on the intensity and frequency of the wave, as well as the properties of the material it passes through.