How do electromagnetic waves propagate through space?

Electromagnetic waves propagate through space by the interaction of electric and magnetic fields.

Simple Explanation:

• An electric field changing over time creates a magnetic field.
• A changing magnetic field then creates an electric field.
• This continuous process allows the wave to move forward without needing any medium (like air or water).

How They Travel:

• The wave has two parts:
  1. Electric field (E) – vibrates in one direction.
  2. Magnetic field (B) – vibrates at a right angle to the electric field.
• Both fields are perpendicular to each other and to the direction of wave travel.

Key Features:

• Electromagnetic waves do not need a medium — they can travel through a vacuum (like space).
• They move at the speed of light (~300,000 km/s in a vacuum).
• Energy is carried forward by the wave’s oscillating electric and magnetic fields.