Question

Which are properties of an electromagnetic wave? Check all that apply.

carries energy only through matter
travels at the speed of light
made of magnetic fields
made of electrical fields
radiates from a source

Answer 1

The properties of an electromagnetic wave include:

1. **Travels at the speed of light** - True, electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light in a vacuum.
2. **Made of magnetic fields** - True, electromagnetic waves consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields.
3. **Made of electrical fields** - True, electromagnetic waves consist of oscillating electric and magnetic fields.
4. **Radiates from a source** - True, electromagnetic waves are produced by accelerating charges and radiate from a source.

The statement "carries energy only through matter" is **false**. Electromagnetic waves can carry energy through a vacuum (empty space) as well as through matter.

So the correct properties to check are:

- Travels at the speed of light
- Made of magnetic fields
- Made of electrical fields
- Radiates from a source