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Electromagnetic Waves - Summary, Properties & Applications

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JEE Main Test Series 2026

Electromagnetic Spectrum Explained with Diagram and Uses

Vedantu is providing JEE Main Electromagnetic Waves Notes with Important Topics to score high in JEE Main 2026. Expert Vedantu master Teachers prepare these JEE Main Notes to empower your journey toward success. You can easily download the FREE PDF of these Notes from Vedantu’s website.

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The main features of JEE Main notes are simplified concepts and compact notes on important topics and theories. 


JEE Main Physics Syllabus JEE Main Physics Revision Notes JEE Main Physics Important Questions JEE Main Physics Difference Between JEE Main Physics Question Papers 

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Electromagnetic Waves & Communication System | One Shot | Refocus-Revise-Reward | Suri Sir | Vedantu
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JEE Main Yearwise Weightage of Questions: Electromagnetic Waves

Electromagnetic Waves Notes PDF should be essential material for students since this chapter explains how changing electric fields generate magnetic fields and vice versa, propagating as self-sustaining electromagnetic waves. 


You will get an idea of the importance of Electromagnetic Waves in JEE Main by looking at the table below.


S.No.

Year

Average No. of Questions Asked

Marks per Question

Total Marks

1.

2024

4

4

16

2.

2023

4

4

16

3.

2022

4

3

12

4.

2021

4

4

16

5.

2020

4

4

16



Take advantage of the opportunity to boost your preparation with our Electromagnetic Waves Notes. These notes cover the entire JEE Main Physics syllabus 2026; you can download them for FREE.


Important Topics From Electromagnetic Waves JEE Main 2026

Below are some important topics students must consider while studying the Electromagnetic Waves chapter. These topics are picked from the previous year’s JEE Main exams. Hence, before downloading the Revision notes, you can go through the list of important topics in this chapter:


S.No

Topic

1

Electromagnetic Spectrum

2

Properties of Electromagnetic Waves

3

Maxwell's Equations

4

Displacement Current

5

Energy and Momentum of EM Waves

6

Production and Detection

7

Applications of EM Waves

8

Wave Equation

9

Polarization

10

Poynting Vector



Significance of Electromagnetic Waves in JEE Main 2026

  • The Electromagnetic Waves chapter is essential for JEE Main, as it provides a foundational understanding of how energy and information are transmitted through space.

  • This topic connects to real-world applications in technology, medical imaging, and communications, making it both academically and practically valuable.

  • Questions from this chapter often appear in JEE Main, testing students on concepts that build a bridge between physics theory and practical uses.


Learn With Electromagnetic Waves Notes and Score High in JEE Main 2026

Electromagnetic Waves: Sparking the Magic of the Universe

The electrifying realm of Electromagnetic Waves – where the invisible dance of energy and fields shapes the very fabric of our universe! From the glow of the sun to the convenience of wireless communication, these waves weave a tapestry of wonders around us. Let's embark on an interactive journey to uncover the secrets of Electromagnetic Waves!


Waving Hello to the Basics:

Imagine tossing a pebble into a calm pond, watching ripples spread out. Electromagnetic waves are like these ripples, but they travel through the 'pond' of electric and magnetic fields. You'll soon find out that these waves need no medium to travel through – they can navigate through space and even vacuum!


Wave Parade: From Radio to X-Rays:

Meet the charismatic members of the electromagnetic wave family:


  • Radio Waves: These laid-back waves power your favorite tunes and enable radio communication. Tune in, and you're in for a groove!

  • Microwaves: Hungry? Microwaves have got your back. They heat up your leftovers and keep those popcorn kernels poppin'!

  • Infrared Waves: Ever wondered why your TV remote needs a clear line of sight? Infrared waves are the silent messengers that beam commands.

  • Visible Light: The rainbow spectrum is all thanks to these waves. They allow us to witness the vibrant world around us.

  • Ultraviolet Waves: While they give you a summer tan, they also serve as cosmic detectives, unveiling mysteries of distant stars.

  • X-Rays and Gamma Rays: These high-energy waves are like cosmic X-ray machines, peering into the depths of matter and space.


Wave-Powered Communication and Beyond:

Hold on tight as we leap into the world of communication! Cell phones, Wi-Fi, and even satellite TV – they all owe their magic to electromagnetic waves. Imagine sending emojis through space – that's the power of these waves!


Let's Play with Electromagnetic Waves:

Ready for some hands-on action? Use a radio receiver to tune into your favorite station. Or grab a pair of polarized sunglasses and see how they block certain orientations of light waves – a fun experiment with visible light polarization!


Cosmic Serenade:

But wait, there's more! Electromagnetic waves are the messengers from the cosmos. Telescopes capture their whispers, revealing distant galaxies, sparkling stars, and the breathtaking beauty of space.


Rocket into Tomorrow:

As you soar through this interactive exploration, remember that the knowledge you're gaining about electromagnetic waves paves the way for countless advancements in technology, communication, and our understanding of the universe. It's like holding a key to a universe of possibilities!


Unveil the captivating world of Electromagnetic Waves – a journey that's both enlightening and electrifying. Get ready to ride the waves of discovery and explore the endless horizons they reveal!


JEE Main 2026 Electromagnetics Notes Vs Formulas

Equations aren't just symbols; They're your key to solving problems in Physics. By learning the formulas, you'll tackle complex concepts effortlessly and boost your confidence.  Get Insights into the world of equations along with JEE Main Physics Revision notes and amplify your study sessions. Explore our Physics formula pages to start your preparation journey of JEE Main today!


Here are Some Important formulas Beneficial for JEE Main 2026

Important Formulas of Electromagnetic Waves

1. Speed of Electromagnetic Waves (v): \[ v = \dfrac{1}{\sqrt{\mu \varepsilon}} \]

Where μ is the permeability of free space and ε is the permittivity of free space.

2. Relation between Speed, Wavelength, and Frequency: \[ v = f \lambda \]

Where f  is the frequency and λ is the wavelength.

3. Wave Number (k): \[ k = \dfrac{2\pi}{\lambda} \]

4. Energy Density (u): \[ u = \dfrac{1}{2} \varepsilon E^2 \]

5. Intensity (I): \[ I = \dfrac{1}{2} c \varepsilon E^2 \]

Where c is the speed of light.

6. Poynting Vector (S): \[ S = c \varepsilon E^2 \hat{n} \]

Where \hat{n} is the unit vector in the direction of propagation.

7. Relation between Electric Field and Magnetic Field: \[ E = cB \]

Where E is the electric field strength and B is the magnetic field strength.

8. Electromagnetic Waves Equation: \[ E = E_0 \sin(kx - \omega t) \]


Strategic Approach: Maximising Learning of Class 12 Electromagnetic Waves

  • Understand the Theory: Spend time on the theoretical aspects of electromagnetic waves, especially Maxwell’s Equations, as they form the base for problem-solving.

  • Solve Numerical Problems: Practice questions involving energy calculations, the Poynting vector, and applications in wave motion. This will help reinforce both theory and application.

  • Visualise the Spectrum: Visual tools like diagrams of the electromagnetic spectrum can help you remember the range and properties of different wave types.

  • Revise Regularly: Electromagnetic waves involve many interconnected ideas, so regular revision helps in retaining the relationships between concepts.


Achieve Success with Vedantu’s JEE Main Resources

  • Vedantu provides FREE PDF notes for Physics Electromagnetic Waves for JEE Mains, created by experienced teachers who break down complex topics into simple, easy-to-follow explanations.

  • Vedantu’s notes cover the entire syllabus, ensuring that you don’t miss any critical concepts. Plus, with downloadable PDFs, you can study anytime, anywhere, making revision more flexible.

  • Practice with solved examples and additional questions included in the PDF to build confidence and improve problem-solving speed for the exam.


Discover the links of extra resources beyond JEE Main 2026 Electromagnetic Waves notes. Check out other important links that open doors to learning, practice papers, mock tests, and insights. Boost your readiness, conquer challenges, and embrace success by using these resources made just for JEE Main 2026.




The Electromagnetic Waves chapter is crucial for JEE Main as it combines theoretical concepts with practical applications. Mastering this chapter with Vedantu's FREE PDF notes can give you a strong grasp of the material, making it easier to tackle related questions in the exam. This structured, easy-to-access resource can help you feel prepared, confident, and ready for success in JEE Main 2026.




Download Subject-wise Notes  for JEE Main

Get the links to download the subject-wise JEE Main Notes PDF for FREE from the table below.


S.No

Subject

Important Questions PDF

1

Chemistry

JEE Main Chemistry Notes

2

Maths

JEE Main Maths Notes



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FAQs on Electromagnetic Waves - Summary, Properties & Applications

1. What are electromagnetic waves?

Electromagnetic waves are oscillating electric and magnetic fields that travel through space at the speed of light, without needing any material medium. These waves are fundamental to understanding modern physics and technology.

Key points:

  • Form the entire electromagnetic spectrum
  • Include radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays
  • Essential for wireless communication, medical imaging, and daily technology

2. What are the properties of electromagnetic waves?

Electromagnetic waves have several defining properties crucial for exams like JEE and boards.

Important properties include:

  • Travel at the speed of light (3 × 108 m/s) in vacuum
  • Are transverse waves with electric and magnetic fields oscillating perpendicular to each other and to the direction of propagation
  • Do not require a medium for propagation
  • Carry energy and momentum
  • Can be polarized

3. What is the electromagnetic spectrum?

The electromagnetic spectrum is the complete range of electromagnetic waves, ordered by their frequency or wavelength.

It includes:

  • Radio waves (lowest frequency, longest wavelength)
  • Microwaves
  • Infrared rays
  • Visible light
  • Ultraviolet rays
  • X-rays
  • Gamma rays (highest frequency, shortest wavelength)
Each region has specific characteristics and real-life applications.

4. How are electromagnetic waves produced?

Electromagnetic waves are produced when an electric charge accelerates, causing changing electric and magnetic fields that propagate outward as a wave.

Common sources:

  • Oscillating electric circuits (radio transmitters)
  • Hot objects and stars (emit infrared and visible light)
  • Electronic devices and lasers
Understanding this mechanism is essential for conceptual and numerical questions.

5. What are the uses of electromagnetic waves?

Electromagnetic waves have diverse uses across technology, medicine, and everyday life.

Major applications include:

  • Radio waves: Broadcasting, communication
  • Microwaves: Cooking, radar, satellites
  • Infrared: Remote controls, night vision
  • Visible light: Vision, photography
  • Ultraviolet: Sterilization, detecting forged banknotes
  • X-rays: Medical imaging
  • Gamma rays: Cancer treatment, sterilization

6. How do electromagnetic waves differ from mechanical waves?

Electromagnetic waves differ from mechanical waves in both their nature and propagation.

Differences:

  • Electromagnetic waves do not require a medium and can travel through vacuum; mechanical waves need a material medium.
  • Electromagnetic waves are transverse; mechanical waves can be transverse or longitudinal.
  • Examples: Light, X-rays (EM); sound, water waves (mechanical).

7. Do electromagnetic waves require a material medium to propagate?

Electromagnetic waves do not require any material medium and can travel through empty space (vacuum). This is unlike sound or water waves, which always need a substance to move through. Because of this, sunlight and other EM waves reach us from space.

8. What is the formula for the speed of electromagnetic waves?

The speed of electromagnetic waves in a vacuum is given by:

c = 3 × 108 m/s

It can also be expressed as c = \( \lambda f \) where c is speed, \( \lambda \) is wavelength, and f is frequency. This equation is frequently used in numerical and conceptual problems.

9. How can I remember the order of the electromagnetic spectrum?

A popular way to remember the order is with mnemonic sentences. One example is:

  • Radio, Microwave, Infrared, Visible, Ultraviolet, X-ray, Gamma-ray

Or, remember: "Rabbits Mate In Very Unusual eXtreme Gardens".

10. What are some effects or hazards of electromagnetic waves?

Exposure to certain electromagnetic waves can cause health effects or hazards depending on frequency and intensity.

Examples include:

  • Ultraviolet: Skin tanning, sunburn, risk of skin cancer
  • X-rays and gamma rays: Cell damage, cancer risk with high exposure
  • Microwaves: Tissue heating at high intensities
Knowledge of these effects is important for both concept and application-based questions.

11. What are Maxwell's equations in relation to electromagnetic waves?

Maxwell's equations explain how changing electric and magnetic fields generate each other, resulting in electromagnetic wave propagation.

Key points:

  • Unified theory of electricity and magnetism
  • Predict wave-like solutions that travel at light speed
  • Foundation for understanding light as an EM wave

12. What is the transverse nature of electromagnetic waves?

Electromagnetic waves are transverse, meaning that their electric and magnetic fields oscillate perpendicular to the direction of wave propagation and to each other. This property distinguishes them from some mechanical waves and helps in phenomena like polarization.