Electromagnetic Wave Propagation Electromagnetic waves can be generated by a variety of methods, such as a discharging spark or by an oscillating molecular dipole. This tutorial explores propagation of a virtual electromagnetic wave and considers the orientation of the magnetic and electric field vectors. The tutorial initializes with an electromagnetic wave being generated by the disharging spark from a virtual capacitor. The spark current oscillates at a frequency characteristic of the circuit. Before discussing anisotropy further, a basic review of several principles of physical optics necessary to subsequent discussions is required.
Light is a form of electromagnetic wave.
The propagation of an electromagnetic wave, which has been generated by a discharging capacitor or oscillating molecular dipole, is illustrated by Figure 1. The frequency, n , is determined by the oscillator and the wavelength is determined by the oscillation frequency divided by the velocity of the wave. The electric current oscillating up and down in the spark gap creates a magnetic field that oscillates in a horizontal plane. A changing magnetic field, in turn, induces an electric field so that a series of electrical and magnetic oscillations combine in a formation that propagates as an electromagnetic wave. At the same frequency, the magnetic field oscillates perpendicular to the electric field.