Radio waves are generated by causing electric charges—usually electrons—to oscillate in an antenna. Here’s how the process works:
- Alternating Current (AC):
A radio transmitter creates a high-frequency alternating current, which flows through a metal antenna. - Oscillation of Electrons:
The alternating current causes electrons in the antenna to oscillate rapidly back and forth. - Electromagnetic Field Creation:
This oscillation produces a changing electric and magnetic field, which radiates outward from the antenna as a radio wave. - Transmission:
The radio wave then travels through the air (or space) at the speed of light, carrying information such as sound, data, or video, depending on how the signal is modulated. - Reception:
A receiver antenna picks up the radio wave, where it is converted back into an electrical signal and decoded into usable information (like audio or data).