Fast review mode: answers are shown by default so you can skim quickly. Hide them if you want to self-test.
Electromagnetism is the interaction between charged particles that occurs via electromagnetic fields. It is one of the four fundamental forces of nature, and is the dominant force between atoms and molecules. Electromagnetism is a combination of magnetism and electrostatics, which are two distinct but closely related phenomena.
Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are mathematical functions of time and position that represent the influences on and due to electric charges. EMFs are a combination of an electric field and a magnetic field, and can be regarded as such at any point in space and time. EMFs are generated by natural phenomena like the Earth's magnetic field, as well as by human activities, mainly through the use of electricity. Examples of equipment that generates EMFs include mobile phones, power lines, and computer screens. Electric and magnetic fields can be considered separate concepts at low frequencies, such as power lines. However, at high frequencies, such as in telephony, the two fields are completely interdependent and constitute an EMF. The main characteristics of EMFs include wave frequency and wavelength. Disturbances in the electric field can create disturbances in the magnetic field, which in turn affects the electric field, leading to an oscillation that propagates through space, known as an electromagnetic wave.
Related Test: A Level Physics Practice Test: Electromagnetic Induction
Join 4M+ learners. Unlock unlimited quizzes, wrong-answer tracking, flashcards + reminders, study guides, and 1-on-1 challenges.